Why Didn’t I Think of That?

2024 Winners

Overview

Prizes

What is IP?

Sponsors

Finalists

“Why Didn’t I Think of That?” is a virtual invention competition for students. Students qualify if they have an original invention that they created at age 18 or younger and the invention has received intellectual property protection. Students who qualify will have the chance to work with an industry professional to learn how to advance their invention. They will also receive recognition in a public communications campaign across IPOEF and Invention Convention audiences, and beyond.

Why Didn’t I Think of That? 

Whether you have a small business or you’re just getting started, this invention competition is for you! Enter to win an opportunity to work one on one with industry professionals to discuss business and IP strategy and the best path to success for your invention.

 

Meet the Coaches

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IDEATION

INNOVATION

PROTECTION

Overview

  • A Review Board* will process and evaluate submissions
  • Finalists will submit a pitch video to promote their invention
  • IPOEF will share finalists videos for public vote
  • Videos can be shared with friends, family, and colleagues
  • The IPO Education Foundation Board of Directors and your vote will determine the winners
  • Winners will be announced publicly

*The Review Board includes executives from companies and law firms with expertise in intellectual property, business strategy, and innovation. 

Guidelines

  • The invention must be of the individual’s own making
  • Inventors must have intellectual property protection
  • IP rights were acquired when the student was under the age of 18

Prizes

  • Business and IP coaching from industry professionals
  • Expense paid trip to Washington, DC to attend and be featured at the Foundation annual Awards Celebration
  • Recognition across IPOEF which reaches thousands of IP professionals, innovators, and educators
  • Recognition in press releases, news outlets, and more!

2024 Winners

Three winners were selected by the Review Board. Click the button below to learn more!

2024 Winners

What is IP?

There are four types of Intellectual Property (or IP): patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Did you know that many soda companies keep their recipes private? This is considered a trade secret! What about the cell phone you use every day? It has hundreds of patented inventions inside of it to make the phone function the way it does. Something is eligible for a patent if it is a new, useful, and non obvious invention. This could mean anything from a water balloon launcher to a rocket ship!

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