Share Your Idea
Explore
Have an early idea, result, or question? Reach out to talk it through. We’ll help you explore options, timing, and whether a formal disclosure makes sense.
Initiate
Understand the path forward. If an idea is ready to move ahead, we’ll help identify next steps—such as IP protection, licensing, or startup pathways—and connect you with the right resources.
Submit
Formally disclose an invention. When appropriate, submit an invention disclosure to share details and begin review for IP protection and commercialization.
Access Form on Division of Research
& Economic Development Site
You’ll be redirected to the Division of Research & Economic Development website.
Not sure where to start—or not yet ready to submit?
That’s completely fine — most innovators begin with a conversation. We’ll walk you through options.
Why Submit Your Invention?
Protect Your Ideas & Get Support
Safeguard your work through intellectual property protection, with guidance on next steps tailored to your research.
Explore Real-World Potential
Identify commercial opportunities, collaborators, and funding to help bring your innovation beyond the lab.
Share in the Success
If your invention is licensed, you’ll receive a share of the revenue—fueling your future research and advancing URI’s impact.
Maximize Public Benefit
Help your innovation reach the people, communities, and industries that need it—supporting both societal and economic growth.
What to Expect
Every innovation is different, but the disclosure process usually follows this path:
Inventor Meeting
We'll meet with you to learn more about your work, your goals, and any development plans.
Initial Review
Our team reviews your disclosure and confirms details around inventorship and potential applications.
Evaluation & Research
We assess technical feasibility, market potential, and intellectual property (IP) landscape.
Decision & Next Steps
Together we'll decide whether to pursue IP protection, explore commercialization strategies, or connect you with funding and partners.
Have Questions?
We’re here to help you navigate the invention disclosure and intellectual property process.
Office of Intellectual Property and Economic Development
Director, IP & Legal
401.874.9003
briannath@uri.edu
Executive Assistant
401.874.5507
tamara_vittone@uri.edu
Research Resources
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