Trademarks & Intellectual Property 101: A Startup's Guide

Protect your brand. Safeguard your innovation. Build a strong foundation.

As an early-stage startup, your ideas, brand, and technology or service are among your most valuable assets. But without proper protection, they could be at risk. Understanding trademarks and intellectual property (IP) is essential—not only to secure your competitive edge but also to ensure you are not setting yourself up for legal risks by unknowingly infringing on existing patents or trademarks.

Attendees will learn:

• The different types of intellectual property and which are most relevant for startups
• How to protect a brand with trademarks, including selecting a strong trademark and the steps to register and enforce it
• The importance of conducting a trademark and patent search before launching a product to avoid infringement issues
• The basics of the trademark application process and key legal considerations for early-stage businesses
• How to prioritize IP protection based on budget, business goals, and startup stage.
• Local and online resources available to support IP needs in Rochester, including those that are free

This is an in-person workshop, and lunch will be provided. Space is limited, and registration closes at 10:00 AM on March 24.

About the Speaker:

Jen Byrnes is a business research expert and startup advocate dedicated to helping entrepreneurs navigate intellectual property and market strategy. As the Business Insight Center (BIC) Supervisor at the Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County, she provides startups and small businesses with the tools they need to grow, protect their ideas, and compete effectively.

The Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County offers two invaluable resources for startups: the Business Insight Center and the Carlson Center for Intellectual Property. The Business Insight Center provides access to market research databases, industry reports, and business planning tools, while the Carlson Center is an official Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) designated by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Together, these resources help local entrepreneurs protect their innovations, navigate IP processes, and make informed business decisions.

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