InventAssist Success Stories: Real Inventors, Real Results

InventAssist Review: Services, Costs, and Alternatives

Overview

InventAssist is an invention‑assistance firm (sometimes confused with similarly named services). These companies typically offer idea evaluation, patent referrals, prototype design, marketing materials, and licensing submission services. Public reviews for similar firms show frequent complaints about high costs, limited results, and aggressive sales practices; verify the exact company name and credentials before signing.

Typical services offered

• Idea evaluation / commercial viability assessment
• Patent referrals (to independent patent attorneys) and prior‑art searches
• Product design & CAD and prototype development (3D models, physical prototypes)
• Marketing materials (presentation booklets, websites, demo videos)
• Licensing outreach (submissions to manufacturers and licensees)
• Manufacturing sourcing and production guidance

Typical costs (industry ranges; confirm with the company)

• Initial consultation / search: \(0–\)300
• Patent attorney fees (separate): \(1,500–\)10,000+ (depends on provisional vs. utility)
• Design/CAD and prototype: \(500–\)10,000+ (complexity dependent)
• Marketing package / submissions: \(500–\)5,000
• Full-service packages: \(2,000–\)30,000+ (many firms sell multi‑stage packages with recurring fees)

Pros and cons

• Pros: single‑point support, helps nontechnical inventors navigate steps, can produce professional materials and prototypes.
• Cons: high cost, no guarantees of patent issuance or licensing, variable quality, documented consumer complaints for some large firms about results and sales tactics.

How to evaluate and protect yourself

1. Ask for clear deliverables and milestones (what exactly you’ll receive, timelines).
2. Get all fees and refund policy in writing.
3. Verify patents are handled by a licensed, independent patent attorney (not an in‑house salesperson).
4. Check reviews, BBB record, and complaints for the exact company name and location.
5. Avoid exclusivity clauses or long automatic payment commitments until satisfied.
6. Consider filing a provisional patent application yourself (cheaper) before paying large sums.
7. Request references and examples of past licensing deals (not just testimonials).

Alternatives (ranked by typical cost and control)

• Low cost / high control: DIY provisional patent filing + freelance designers (Cheaper, more control)
• Mid cost / professional: Hire a patent attorney + independent product designer/engineer (best legal protection and technical quality)
• Full service / convenience: Reputable product development firms (higher cost; vet carefully)
• Crowdsourced or equity paths: Crowdfunding to validate market demand before major investment