Idea Development
Technology and Product
Development Resources
If you or your company is exploring a new product or business idea, the following videos will assist in protecting and developing your idea.
Protecting Your Idea
Presenter: Anthony Bourget, Bourget Law
View US Patent & Trademark website.
Attorney discusses how to protect your intellectual property and the benefits of relationships with consultants and outside experts. How can you discuss your idea without losing the rights to the idea? If you have questions, consult an Intellectual Property attorney or consultant.
Idea Development - Creativity
Presenter: Dr. Todd Hostager, UW- Eau Claire
Google your product idea.
How new is your idea? Have you really explored the full creative potential of your idea? Dr. Hostager discusses some common pitfalls to avoid in the early stages of idea development, shows how to leverage the power of the internet and creative ‘jam sessions’ to overcome these obstacles, and demonstrates the power of ‘Next Logical Step’ creativity to take new ideas to a higher level.
Idea/Technology Assessment
Presenters: Jerry Johnson & Mike Cropp, UW-Stout Center for Innovation and Development
Are you seeking to develop a prototype of your product idea? If so, there are many resources available to assist you in that effort. One potential resource is the Center for Innovation and Development located at UW-Stout. This video explores some of the different processes and technologies available to assist in advancing your idea.
Local, Regional,
and State Resources
Center for Innovation and Development (CID)
View website.
715.232.1457
CID services include feasibility assessment, product engineering and design, prototype development, product evaluation, and patent advice.
UW- Eau Claire
Materials Science Center
View website.
715.836.5312
Industries, particularly small start-up companies, can tap into state-of-the-art, specialized equipment and the broad material expertise of UW-Eau Claire faculty to enhance research and development programs and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
UW-Eau Claire
Entrepreneur Program
View website.
Email the program director.
715.836.5199
If you have an early stage business or product in the patent application process, but lack the time or resources necessary to develop a comprehensive business plan and strategy, consider bringing an entrepreneur student in as part of the business management team.
Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Network
View website.
715.836.5057
WEN provides integrated statewide support to entrepreneurs.
This is not an all inclusive list, but should assist in identifying key resources that support businesses in various stages of development.
*Left: These videos are intended for general guidance only. Since professional advice must always be specific to the circumstances of a particular situation, the information presented here should not be viewed as professional advice on advancing your specific technology or idea.