Entrepreneurship and Intellectual Property
My name is David Spears and I am an Intellectual Property attorney who manages patent portfolios for client ranges from start-up companies to multibillion dollar companies around the world. I am also a former college football player for Michigan State University. I am interviewing people who have invested in themselves and Intellectual property, and who then goes on to start a business around their intellectual Property.
Entrepreneurship and Intellectual Property
How Shark Tank Inspired This Patented Blanket Invention
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Ever wondered how a simple frustration at home can turn into a patented product sold nationwide? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Aquito Young, the founder of Koveroo Blanket, as he shares his journey from social worker to successful inventor. Learn how he solved the problem of cold feet and legs with a unique blanket design that recirculates body heat and stays secure in any weather.
In this interview of Everything Intellectual Property, we explore the grit and determination required to bring a new product to market. Aquito discusses the importance of securing a patent, navigating the complexities of trademarks, and how he educated himself through Google University and Shark Tank. We also dive into the practical side of business, from finding the right manufacturing partners to utilizing local business incubators like Happy Valley LaunchBox to secure funding and mentorship.
Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur with a million dollar idea or just curious about the invention process, Aquito’s story offers valuable lessons on perseverance and the power of taking action. Discover how he went from checking product tags in Walmart aisles to identify manufacturers to partnering with major sports licensing companies.
CHAPTERS
0:00 INTRODUCING AQUITO YOUNG AND KOVEROO
2:15 THE PROBLEM THE KOVEROO BLANKET SOLVES
4:30 TRANSLATING SOCIAL WORK SKILLS TO BUSINESS
7:15 THE POWER OF PATENT PROTECTION AND EXCLUSIVITY
10:00 LEARNING IP THROUGH TRIAL BY FIRE
12:45 THE ORIGIN OF THE KOVEROO NAME AND JINGLE
15:30 TRADEMARK LESSONS FROM THE USPTO
18:45 CHALLENGES IN EARLY MANUFACTURING
21:30 SECURING A MAJOR MANUFACTURING PARTNERSHIP
24:45 CREATIVE WAYS TO FIND SUPPLIERS IN RETAIL STORES
27:30 THE IMPACT OF BUSINESS INCUBATORS AND GRANTS
30:15 ADVICE FOR NEW ENTREPRENEURS JUST STARTING OUT
33:10 WHERE TO FIND KOVEROO ONLINE
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#entrepreneurship #patents #smallbusiness #invention #koveroo