how do you sell an idea to a company?

Question

electronic

Answer 1

To add to the patent answer, mail your idea to yourself so you have additional proof as to when your idea was developed. Don't open it, the USPS stamp is legal proof as to the date, so if you sue and need to show proof, then you will open it in front of the court to verify your claim.

If you present your idea to a company without a patent, the company will steal your idea. It happened to my brother. They told him that they will consider his idea, never got back to him, or would respond to his inquiries. Shortly thereafter, they came out with a product that was very similar to his. He could have taken them to court because he had sent his idea to himself in the mail, but it would have cost too much and been too much hassle without much compensation.

Nowadays you probably can get a lawyer to take your case virtually as pro bono and only collect fees if you win your case.

My recommendation is to do both get a patent (it takes time but will be worth it in the long run) and send yourself the plans in the mail.

Once you have done this, then e-mail, call, and fax all applicable companies with your then patented idea and proposal. If you can afford it, you might want to hire a lawyer for extra protection and get the legal ways to word your contract to the company(ies).

Answer 2

You first get a patent on the idea, so that the company can't take it from you. Don't mention it to anyone until you get a patent on the idea. Then they'll have to pay you money if they use it without your permission - you could sue. Then just call the company and propose the idea, telling them you have a patent on it. Make sure you mention the patent.

Answer 3

Make a proper business plan and make sure to back up your facts. Best way is to make an appointment with upper management officers or the president of the company itself.