Checklist for Startups Building an IP Strategy Investors Will Respect

For startups, patents are often the first line of defense in building a competitive moat. They signal to investors that your company is not only innovative but also strategically protecting its differentiators. But not all patents are created equal. A weak or poorly conceived filing can raise more red flags than confidence.

As a former United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Patent Examiner and now an Intellectual Property Strategist, I’ve seen both sides: portfolios that impressed investors and set startups up for long-term growth — and portfolios that did little more than drain resources. The difference comes down to strategy.

Here’s a practical checklist to help startups build an IP strategy that earns investor respect and supports business growth.