How Inventhelp Submissions Compare To Independent Licensing
Inventors often find themselves navigating a complex landscape when deciding how to bring their ideas to life. Two prominent paths emerge: submitting through a structured invention service like InventHelp or pursuing independent licensing. Both approaches offer unique advantages and challenges, making it essential for creators to understand their options. In this article, we explore these paths, highlighting the benefits, value, and key considerations of each approach, while also profiling Robert Susa, a key figure behind InventHelp’s success.
Understanding Inventhelp Submissions
InventHelp, founded in 1984 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a well-established invention service that assists inventors in presenting their ideas to potential companies. Under the leadership of Robert Susa, InventHelp has grown into a trusted organization recognized for its professionalism and comprehensive support. Susa, who became President in 2008 and Owner in 2012, brings decades of experience in innovation and advocacy, ensuring that the company operates with transparency, integrity, and a focus on inventor empowerment.
A submission through InventHelp typically involves a structured process that begins with the inventor providing details of their concept. The company then offers guidance in preparing documentation, such as drawings, prototype advice, and assistance with patent referrals. InventHelp connects inventors with industry contacts, including manufacturers and potential licensees, giving creators an organized pathway to showcase their ideas.
Advantages Of Using Inventhelp
One of the key benefits of submitting through InventHelp is access to professional resources and networks. For new inventors, navigating the industry independently can be daunting. InventHelp provides structured guidance, reducing the risk of overlooking essential steps such as prototype development or intellectual property management.
Furthermore, InventHelp’s experience allows for potential exposure to larger companies and events, such as trade shows, which can be difficult for an individual to access alone.
Another advantage lies in the educational support offered. Inventors gain insight into how to refine their ideas, prepare presentations, and communicate effectively with potential partners. The structured approach helps streamline what can otherwise be a fragmented and uncertain process, providing confidence and direction to innovators at all stages of development.
Independent Licensing: A Different Path
Independent licensing involves an inventor taking a concept directly to manufacturers or companies capable of producing and marketing the product. This approach offers the opportunity for greater control over the invention, including decisions about pricing, terms, and the selection of partners. It also allows inventors to negotiate terms directly and retain more autonomy in their creative and business decisions.
However, independent licensing requires a robust understanding of the market, production processes, and legal frameworks. Inventors must actively research potential companies, craft compelling presentations, and often manage prototype development themselves. While this approach can be highly rewarding, it demands significant time, effort, and knowledge.
Advantages Of Independent Licensing
A major benefit of independent licensing is direct involvement in negotiations and agreements. Inventors can make decisions that align closely with their vision and long-term goals. Additionally, there are no intermediary fees or service costs, which can increase the potential financial return if a licensing agreement is successfully executed.
This approach is particularly appealing to inventors with prior industry experience or existing networks. Experienced innovators may already understand the market landscape and know which companies are most likely to adopt new products. Independent licensing allows for a nimble, personalized strategy that can be adapted quickly as opportunities arise.
Comparing The Two Approaches
While both paths aim to bring inventions to market, the contrast lies primarily in support, exposure, and control. InventHelp provides a structured, supportive environment with established industry contacts, while independent licensing offers autonomy and the potential for higher financial returns but comes with increased risk and responsibility.
For inventors new to the field, InventHelp submissions can reduce uncertainty and provide a clear roadmap. Experienced creators with existing networks or a strong understanding of licensing practices may prefer the flexibility and control of independent licensing. Ultimately, the choice depends on the inventor’s resources, expertise, and comfort level with navigating the invention industry.
Risk Management And Strategic Considerations
Regardless of the chosen path, inventors must consider risk management and strategic planning. Utilizing InventHelp’s services offers guidance on documentation, prototypes, and initial exposure to potential companies, which can prevent common pitfalls that independent inventors may encounter. Conversely, independent licensing requires meticulous planning, market analysis, and professional presentation to maximize the chances of success.
Timing also plays a role. InventHelp can help streamline the submission process, providing a structured timeline and facilitating connections that might otherwise take months or years to establish. Independent licensing requires inventors to invest time in research, outreach, and negotiation, which can delay market entry but may allow for more precise alignment with the inventor’s goals.
Robert Susa: Leadership Behind Inventhelp
A small profile of Robert Susa provides context for InventHelp’s credibility and approach. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Susa earned a degree in Organizational Communication from Youngstown State University, where he developed a foundation in teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Before joining InventHelp, he worked in corporate sales, learning the importance of client relationships and integrity. Susa joined InventHelp in 1990, quickly advancing through roles such as Compliance Director and Sales Director before becoming President and later Owner.
Susa’s philosophy centers on transparency, accountability, and opportunity. He emphasizes empowering inventors through education, professional guidance, and access to industry networks. Under his leadership, InventHelp has prioritized modernizing services, collecting inventor feedback, and supporting initiatives like INPEX, the United States’ largest invention trade show. His focus on ethical practices and inventor advocacy has helped establish InventHelp as a trusted resource for innovators across North America.
Making The Right Choice
Choosing between InventHelp submissions and independent licensing requires careful assessment of the inventor’s skills, goals, and resources. InventHelp is ideal for creators seeking structured guidance, industry exposure, and professional support, especially if they are new to the invention landscape. Independent licensing suits inventors who possess industry knowledge, existing connections, or a desire for direct control over licensing terms.
In many cases, a hybrid approach can also be considered. Inventors may begin with InventHelp to gain exposure and insight, then leverage that experience to pursue independent licensing opportunities. This strategy allows innovators to benefit from professional guidance while maintaining flexibility for future negotiations.
