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in the next three sections that may help you identify legitimate companies.
Advertising and Sales Techniques
Some invention promotion firms advertise through television and radio,
and classified ads in newspapers and magazines. They target independent
inventors, frequently offering free information to help them patent and market
inventions. They also may advertise a toll-free "800" telephone number that
inventors can call for written information. However, the information may
consist only of brochures about the promoter.
If you respond to the ads, you may hear from a salesperson who will ask
for information about yourself, your idea, and a sketch of the invention. As
an inducement, the firm may offer to do a free preliminary review of your
invention.
Also, some invention promotion firms may claim to know or have special
access to manufacturers who are likely to be interested in licensing your
invention. Further, some promotion firms may claim to have been retained by
manufacturers who are looking for new product ideas. These kinds of claims
often can be false or exaggerated. Therefore, before signing a contract with
an invention promotion firm who claims special relationships with appropriate
manufacturers, ask for some proof.
A Market Evaluation
After giving your invention a preliminary review, a firm might tell you
it needs to do a market evaluation on your idea, which may cost several
hundred dollars. Such reports from
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