If you have an idea for an invention, you can start by joining a local inventors' group. Next, you need to think about your idea and develop a prototype. This step will help you decide if your idea is worth pursuing. Once you have a prototype, you can decide whether it is worth protecting as an invention.
Join a local inventors group

If you have an idea for a product, you can use the local inventors group to find funding for your product. These groups provide a wealth of information and best practices for bringing your product to market. As an added benefit, you can also network with other inventors.

Invention groups can be found all over the country and can help you develop and test your ideas. They can also provide you with reliable help in your area and help you determine which steps to take in your pursuit. In addition to networking, local inventors groups often feature guest speakers who discuss common challenges and offer advice on how to overcome them. These people are often patent attorneys or successful inventors who are happy to share their knowledge.
Think about your idea

When thinking about an invention idea, keep in mind that it needs to solve a real problem. The invention may be something that's totally new, or it could be something that improves on something that already exists. To begin, consider what problem you'd like to solve, and then work to improve your idea step by step.

Ideally, the invention should solve a real problem, and it should do so in an efficient and easy-to-use way. Furthermore, it should be able to improve someone's life. The more useful your invention is, the higher its chances of taking off.
Come up with a prototype

If you have an idea for an invention, one of the first steps that you need to take is to come up with a prototype. This does not have to be a perfect working model; rather, it is just a rough sketch meant to help you think through your invention. It can include pictures and detailed descriptions.

Creating a prototype will enable you to get feedback on your concept. It will help you to determine the potential marketability of your product. It will also help you to get financing. A prototype will give you a feel for how your product works and if there are any problems.
Determine if it's worth pursuing

The first step to determining whether an idea for an invention is worth pursuing is to evaluate your level of passion for the idea. This is a very important step because passion is a key indicator of success. You should begin assessing your passion early in the process and watch it closely over time.

The second step to determining whether an idea is worth pursuing is to test it. This doesn't mean that you should manufacture your invention but you should at least get some feedback from people who use the product. It is better to get initial feedback from people who fit your target market, so that you can get a good idea of whether your idea has potential.
Get a patent

If you've had an idea for an invention and are ready to go forward with it, the first step is to get your idea on paper. While mailing your idea to yourself is the poor man's patent, it isn't the best way to get your idea protected.

To be eligible for patent protection, your idea must be new and not obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the field. Also, you must have found no prior public disclosures of your idea, and you can do this by searching historical libraries and patent databases.
Find a buyer

If you are considering selling your invention idea, you'll need to know where to find the right buyer. You can use an online database, such as IdeaConnection, to find prospective buyers. IdeaConnection does not charge any commission on sales. Each invention for sale is listed on its own page, and you can include photos, drawings, and a biography. If you want to protect your idea, you can also sign a confidentiality agreement that will ensure the seller doesn't use it.

If your idea is for a toy, consider submitting it to a company that specializes in that specific niche. For example, if your product is for a car, you could submit it to Dorman Products. This company will pay up to $500 for your idea, and you could also sign a licensing agreement if your idea is popular. You could also try Sharper Image, which specializes in lifestyle and home electronics products. This company has a dedicated email address for product ideas.
Prepare a sell sheet

A sell sheet is an important part of marketing an invention idea. It's meant to generate interest in an idea by convincing readers of its benefits. The sell sheet should give the reader enough information to get interested, but not too much. It should also be vague enough to reduce rejection risk.

It is advisable to get feedback from a marketing expert before distributing the sell sheet to potential buyers. Also, it's advisable to send the sell sheet with a cover letter to companies you know who might be interested in licensing your idea. Inventors can also take advantage of invention conventions to network with potential licensees and investors. It's also a good idea to look for licensing intermediaries, which can connect inventors with companies and avoid legal problems. In addition, you can join inventor groups to network with other inventors.