We’re finally using our patent powers for good. The USPTO and the White House announced an awards competition titled, “Patents for Humanity”. It is the USPTO’s voluntary pilot program to recognize patent owners who apply their patented technology to address humanitarian needs. According to the USPTO, “The program advances the president’s global development agenda by rewarding companies who bring life-saving technologies to underserved people of the world, while showing how patents are an integral part of tackling the world’s challenges.” Patent owners and inventors whose patents offer a humanitarian goal will receive an award certificate that can be used to accelerate the prosecution any patent application in their portfolio (a $4,800 value).
The announcement on USPTO.gov states,
Participants will send in applications describing how they’ve used their patented technology or products to address humanitarian challenges. Judges will choose winners in four categories: medical technology, food and nutrition, clean technology and information technology.
Winners will receive a certificate for accelerated processing of select patent USPTO matters. The program creates a powerful tool for businesses to expedite handling of their most important matters and help validate technology in the market – leading to quicker and more efficient investment decisions.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the vast humanitarian challenges we face. Patents for Humanity will seek to recognize businesses of all shapes and sizes. Businesses are finding unique and creative ways to reach people in the developing world with sustainable solutions.
Highlighting success stories of humanitarian engagement that are compatible with business interests and strong patent rights will demonstrate how businesses can effectively contribute while maintaining commercial markets.
For more information on the combination of doing good and innovative progress, please visit the USPTO site as well as the Patents for Humanity site.
Tags: Patents for Humanity, USPTO
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