An awards competition recognizing those who apply their patented technology to address humanitarian needs.

For over two centuries, strong patents have provided business incentives that encourage technological progress to build our modern world.  As we struggle against humanitarian issues plaguing many of the world's poor, patents play an essential role in creating lasting solutions.

Patents For Humanity is the USPTO's voluntary prize competition for patent owners and licensees.  The pilot program encourages businesses of all kinds to apply their patented technology to addressing the world's humanitarian challenges.  As an incentive, winners will receive a certificate for expedited processing of certain matters before the USPTO.

Participants will submit applications describing how they have addressed humanitarian needs with their patented technology.  Judging will be performed by researchers from academia and Federal labs donating their time.  Up to 50 winners will be chosen in the pilot year, with winners receiving a certificate for accelerated processing at the USPTO.

Applications will compete in four categories of global issues:

• Medical Technology
• Food & Nutrition
• Clean Technology
• Information Technology

Eligible technologies may include life-saving medicines and vaccines, medical diagnostic equipment, more nutritious or heartier crops, food storage & preservation technology, water sterilization devices, cleaner sources of household light and heat, or information devices promoting literacy and education, among others.

The program is open to all types of organizations.  Universities and small businesses are at the forefront of humanitarian endeavors, pioneering innovative new ways to reach people in need.  Patents for Humanity seeks to recognize the important contributions made by a diverse range of organizations.

For more information, see the Patents for Humanity program page at USPTO.