I created an awesome invention but don’t have the money to mass-produce it. Right now, my only option is licensing, but I’m afraid one of those big companies will steal my idea once I pitch it to them. What should I do?

I understand your concern, and I’d be worried too. Fortunately, there are ways to shop around your idea without disclosing too much.

First, file a provisional patent. While it doesn’t provide your invention with permanent protection, the “patent pending” status would usually be enough to discourage infringers.

On the other hand, if your invention is not patentable, you can ask them to sign a non-disclosure agreement before you pitch your idea. The parties who signed the NDA will then be sworn to confidentiality or they will be liable for legal damages. An NDA also opens up arbitration for any dispute to protect your secret from being revealed in an open court.

These measures are often enough, but some companies may still be able to play dirty. Whether you are an individual or a business entity dealing with intellectual property disputes, visit https://arajlaw.com/practice-areas/intellectual-property-section/. Ara Jabagchourian is the best intellectual property lawyer in the San Francisco area.