Patents and Trademarks

University of Utah's Policy regarding patents and inventions. This policy applies to all University administrative officers, faculty members, non- faculty academic employees, staff members (whether full or part-time) and students.

University of Utah inventors (faculty, staff, and certain students) should share or disclose information about their invention(s) with the Technology Licensing Office (TLO). This confidential disclosure should happen promptly to initiate a relationship with the TLO and start the processes for protecting and commercializing the invention. Prompt disclosure is required by federal law, U policy, and often by agreements or funding agencies.

Inventors must disclose inventions and patents to the TLO. TLO offers numerous resources, trainings, and events related to entrepreneurship.

"A collaborative effort among the University of Utah's leaders in health, business, engineering, and commercialization, the Center for Medical Innovation (CMI) combines formal education programs, faculty and student project development, and support for facilitation of device development and commercialization. CMI creates a one-stop-shop environment that assists both the novice and experienced innovator through ideation, concept generation, intellectual property, market analysis, prototyping and testing, business plan development, and commercialization." CMI programs include the Bench-to Bedside medical device competition, Clinical Learning & Immersion Program (CLIP), MedTech Venture Studio, and more.

"An incubator within the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business providing space for idea, project and product exploration. We work with both for-profit and non-profit companies and projects that have existing transactions and prototypes, providing counselling and resources to help them achieve stability and profitability. Our studio welcomes both students and members of the broader community."

"The U.S. National Science Foundation’s Innovation Corps (I-Corps™) program is designed to help reduce the time and risk associated with translating promising ideas and technologies from the laboratory to the marketplace. This personalized program helps researchers transform their discoveries into products and services that can benefit society within a community of entrepreneurs, educators and mentors. Anyone is welcome to attend, including those outside the University of Utah system."

The "nationally ranked hub for student entrepreneurs and innovators at the University of Utah. Whether you want a deep dive or only have an hour, the Lassonde Institute has something for all students to learn how to become a founder, creator or change-maker."

Starting point for finding business-related information for Utah.

"The Division of Corporations and Commercial Code, a division of the Utah Department of Commerce, registers all statutory business entities, state trademarks, and UCC-Article 9 lien notice filings."

"Register your business with the Utah State Tax Commission and apply for a tax account/license."

From the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, "the Startup State Initiative highlights what already exists in Utah" through their 19-step process. They feature many centers and resources throughout the state.

"The Center for Rural Development works with Utah’s rural counties, communities and businesses, providing economic development resources. The Center is the home of the Rural Opportunity Program and assists with other programs to help local governments and businesses grow and prosper."

"The office supports Utah entrepreneurs and businesses. We work to retain and recruit companies and bring more high-paying jobs to Utah. In addition, we work with industries, Utah regions, communities, and nonprofits to implement strategic economic development plans and reinforce Utah’s already diverse, prosperous economy."

With locations in Salt Lake City and St. George, "our office provides help with SBA services including funding programs, counseling, federal contracting certifications, and disaster recovery. We can also connect you to our partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed."

Utah SBDCs help "small business owners start, own and operate successful small businesses. The Utah SBDC demonstrates significant impact on the state’s economy through job creation, small business starts, small business loans, and state and federal tax revenues generated."

Utah VBRC provides one-on-one mentoring, courses, and workshops for veterans and their families.

"Helping Utah Women Start, Grow & Lead Successful Businesses. The Women’s Business Center of Utah offers advising, trainings, tools, and community, so you don’t have to build your business alone."