Part B · Startup-relevant scheme
Patents for Humanity (Patents for Humanity)
US Patent and Trademark Office
Other
Growth / ScalingMarket Access & IP
Biotech, Health & PharmaEnergy & Clean TechSocial Impact
Patents for Humanity recognizes patent holders, applicants, and licensees whose technology meaningfully addresses global humanitarian challenges, judged on technology effectiveness, distribution to those in need, and demonstrated impact.
Type of support
Other
Best suited for
Growth / Market Access
Headline amount
N/A — non-monetary award (processing acceleration + recognition)
How much
Non-monetary (USPTO processing acceleration)
Objectives
Encourage patent holders to actively distribute humanitarian-relevant technology to underserved populations, not just hold the patent.
Who can apply?
- Open to any patent holder, applicant, or licensee — businesses, universities, and nonprofits.
- Submissions evaluated on technology effectiveness, efforts to increase use among the impoverished, and demonstrated impact.
What do you get?
- Winners receive an acceleration certificate to expedite select USPTO proceedings.
- Honorable mentions receive accelerated examination of one patent application.
- Public recognition on USPTO's website and at an awards ceremony.
How to apply
Submit an application during USPTO's open competition window, described on USPTO's Patents for Humanity page.
Key links
Details as most recently confirmed against the official source linked above. Deadlines, amounts and windows change — verify on the official portal before applying.