The Intersection of tech, law, and strategy
There’s great advantage in blockchain’s underlying technology.
It, and other related technologies, guarantee groundbreaking solutions to challenges in the distribution, control, and distribution of data.
Recognizing this promise, many carry on investing heavily in blockchain — leading to innovation and, naturally, a desire to protect it.
Patents are the best way to protect this innovation. However, patenting blockchain has frequently raised issues of eligibility. Issues rather serious considering just how many applications of blockchain relate to FinTech or improvements to business practices.
For that reason, it’s very important to discuss the law of patent-eligibility in the U.S. and internationally, and what these laws mean when protecting blockchain-related inventions.
Coincidentally, I will be speaking at the upcoming conference on “Patenting Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies” hosted by the PLI (Practicing Law Institute), in San Francisco on December 4, talking about:
Strategizing for the international patent landscape
Popular blockchain applications outside the U.S.
Effective patent prosecution strategies abroad and in the U.S.
The business and legal risks associated with DLT applications
Crafting and evaluating global IP strategies for protecting DLT
Want to find out if your Blockchain idea is the next groundbreaking invention?
Take our short survey to find out what type of intellectual property is right for your Blockchain idea!
First, let’s answer some really important questions…
Finding the right strategic partner
For those involved in the blockchain industry it might seem easy to answer questions about patenting blockchain but, sadly, only a handful of legal companies genuinely understand blockchain and even a smaller number are considered active in the industry.
At KISSPatent, as a global patent platform, we strongly believe in cryptocurrencies and blockchain as platforms to empower innovators all over the world.
With our 360-degree approach to blockchain, we support our clients in obtaining blockchain patents and also incorporate blockchain technology into our own work as patent practitioners.
Blockchain is a significant step forward as we look towards greater global innovation integration and connectivity.
So, take some time and consider partnering with someone who thoroughly and honestly understands your technology and innovation — only then will you be able to craft a long-term global patent strategy.
Having the right strategy
If you think about it, every blockchain idea is either a software or a process, so, given the right circumstances, they can be patented, right?
But, what about open source?
Truth is, open source is hard to get around, but, there are other strategies like combining traditional patents with open-source licensing or other forms of intellectual property like trademarks and copyrights.
Moreover, when thinking strategically, try to think very long term.
Patents have an average lifetime of 20 years. So, the patents that you file today have the potential to revolutionize the world for the next 20 years!
Only those who act now, will win the blockchain patent race. You aren’t just increasing your startup’s valuation, you will also dominate the market for the next 20 years.
A comprehensive long-term intellectual property portfolio can be of substantial value — for bolstering market position, protecting research and development efforts, generating revenue, and encouraging favorable cross-licensing or settlement agreements.
Think about it, what you do today, will shape the future for the next 20 years!
Ready to start?
Become part of this amazing journey.
If you are a blockchain entrepreneur who wants more insights on protecting your blockchain technology, join us in San Francisco during the Practicing Law Institute’s event on Patenting Blockchain or watch the live webcast if you can’t make it.
We’ll also be having one-on-one meetings for anyone who’s interested! We’d love to sit down and chat with you!
If you want some help on determining if your blockchain idea is patentable, use this guide and find out or contact us at contact@kisspatent.com!
Wondering if your idea is patentable? Have a question about this article? We can answer all of your questions — just hit "contact us" down below!
