Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hello!! I have an idea for pet related product. I`m having a professional prototype made.  Friends and family like the product and so far it`s been alot of fun designing, dreaming of product name, company name, etc.  Have not filed for a provisional patent.  The $5,000 legal fee is not justified yet as I feel more market research is needed.  Other than talking to Petsmart, Petco etc. how else do I research the market?  What do I need to be doing while the prototype is being made.  HELP! I really need mentoring.   All opinions welcomed!  1busymomma

Dear 1busymomma,

While creating a prototype can be an important step in the product development process, there are other important actions to consider.

Deciding how best to "protect" your product idea is one of those steps. A provisional patent is one option. However, $5000 to file one is quite a bit higher than the people I work with charge.

Sorry, let me break it down.  1500 for the prior art search and 3500 for the provisional.  Is that more in line with your co.?

Try having a proof of concept and get your first sale.