How to Advertise My Invention for Sale

Marketing your product can be frustrating if you don't know where to start.

So you've probably got a great invention on your hands, but a great invention has no monetary value if no one knows about it. According to the United Inventors Association, fewer than 5 percent of U.S. patents have ever been commercialized due to a lacking knowledge of how to market new products. With a bit of research and consideration, you can find the best way to advertise your invention.

Instructions

1. Get a patent on your invention. If you've invested a significant amount of time and money into your creation, having a patent on your invention will ensure that no one else can use your idea to create a similar product. It's a guaranteed way to protect your invention and will bring you one step closer to selling your product.

2. Look into working with a marketing firm. Depending upon how much you plan to sell and therefore can afford to spend, there are several online marketing firms that will help you with licensing and advertising your product to a particular market. Be sure to do extensive research on which marketing firm may be best for you and your product. Visit ftc.gov (the Federal Trade Commission website) for tips on how to avoid scams.

3. Create your own website. If your invention is developed enough to produce and sell, creating your own website can be a great way to get the ball rolling. If you're unsure of whether or not you're ready to invest your time and money into your own website, try selling your item on eBay.com. Otherwise, Web Store by Amazon and 1&1 eShops offer affordable monthly rates and help you with your website setup.

4. Take your invention to a trade show. It's a great way for up and coming inventors to showcase their products. There is usually a fee to attend, but the return on that fee could be substantial if you create banners, cards and good advertising to show off your new creation. Make sure you find a trade show that is right for your product before committing.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid scammers! Thoroughly research any company or firm that you may consider using or doing business with.

References

• CNN Money: How Can I Cash in on My Brain Child?
• United Investors Association: How to Spot a Scam
• Yahoo Business: Taking Your Invention to a Trade Show
• Build Website 4 U: Selling on the Internet

Resources

• Invention Marketing