Why IpFunders Exists
To reduce the risk of creating intellectual property — so innovation can move forward on merit, not just capital.
Most founders understand that intellectual property matters. Fewer understand why the traditional model for creating IP is so poorly suited to startups.
For most technology companies, IP protection begins with patents. Patents are the most common starting point for IP protection, not its boundary. Patent prosecution requires significant upfront investment. Outcomes take years. Grant rates are uncertain. And the economic value depends on market factors you can't predict when you file. The traditional model demands commitment before clarity.
IpFunders exists to offer a different structure.
We fund IP protection upfront—starting with patents, where the timing risk is greatest. You pay modest periodic fees while applications are pending. As the IP takes shape and proves its value, your investment can grow accordingly. And when the IP becomes strategic, you can consolidate ownership and eliminate ongoing fees.
This isn't a loan. There's no debt, no interest, no repayment schedule. It's not equity financing. There's no dilution, no board seats. It's a structure that lets commitment align with clarity.
We manage U.S. patent prosecution internally, which means we can execute continuation and divisional strategy efficiently. As your needs evolve, there's no renegotiation required. The relationship is designed from the start to adapt.
IpFunders exists because we believe founders shouldn't have to choose between protecting their IP and preserving their capital. The right structure lets you do both.
Clear Positioning
Understanding what IpFunders is — and isn't
We Are
- An IP protection funding platform
- Focused on patents as the primary starting point
- A non-equity, non-debt capital partner
- Structured to align with founder success
We Are Not
- A patent law firm or filing service
- A litigation funder or patent assertion entity
- A venture fund seeking equity
- A lender expecting repayment
The Risk We Shift
Traditional IP models only talk about financial risk. We address all four.
Prosecution Risk
We fund upfront costs and absorb uncertainty of patent issuance
Timing Risk
Low fees while pending means you don't over-commit early
Market Risk
Adapt your position if circumstances change. Flexibility is built in.
Strategic Risk
Investment follows value. Commitment aligns with clarity.
"IpFunders absorbs the upfront risk of creating IP assets, and later recovers value if — and only if — the IP proves valuable."
That's risk shifting, not just funding. That's why we exist.