Patent Filing Considerations and Preparing Your Own Provisional Application

Intellectual property is a cornerstone of innovation and startup success. Whether you’re developing a new product, app, or process, understanding how to protect your ideas is critical.

In this session, Justin Sanders, Managing Partner at Master Key IP, will walk you through key concepts of patent law—what’s patentable, when to file, and how to prepare your own provisional patent application to secure your intellectual property rights.

You’ll learn how to:

• Determine whether your invention is patentable
• Avoid common filing mistakes that can limit protection
• Draft and file a strong provisional patent application
• Protect your IP before public disclosure or commercialization

This workshop is designed for entrepreneurs, inventors, small business owners, and students who want to confidently navigate the patent filing process and make smarter decisions about their innovations.

About the Speaker: Justin Sanders

Justin Sanders is an intellectual property attorney and Managing Partner at Master Key IP, where he helps startups and small businesses protect and monetize their IP. With 19+ years of experience, Justin has assisted hundreds of clients in building valuable patent portfolios across industries in both the U.S. and abroad.

He earned his B.S. in Computer Science (with a minor in Human Resources Management) from Cal State Long Beach, and his J.D. (magna cum laude) from Whittier Law School, where he also earned a Certificate in Intellectual Property Law.

In addition to leading Master Key IP, Justin serves as a mentor and resource for local universities and startup incubators, helping founders make informed, cost-effective decisions about IP strategy.

Who Should Attend

• Entrepreneurs developing new products or technology
• Inventors preparing to file for protection
• Small business owners looking to protect their intellectual property
• Students interested in innovation, startups, or patent law

About the CSUF Startup Incubator

The CSUF Startup Incubator helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into thriving businesses. We provide expert mentorship, training, and a community of like-minded innovators who believe in learning by doing.

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