IdeaTango is a social networking site that is set up to allow inventors a place to post, request and exchange ideas, inventions, intellectual property and patents — the MySpace of inventions. Companies can search the database of ideas for possible products for their company.
The founder, Bryan Daigle, contacted me and asked if I would take a look at the site. The web site describes Bryan as:
Like many of our members, our founder is an inventor. Because he was disappointed with all the invention companies that rarely had the inventor’s best interest in mind, he created this website to help inventors publicize their ideas, connect inventors with others who could help take the ideas to market, and hopefully make some money in the process.
The site is designed for small inventors looking to exploit their ideas. The listed benefits for inventors are:
- Learn about inventing from Successful Inventors & share your experiences
- Market & Develop Your Inventions
- Find Reputable Service Providers
- Enter Invention Contests and Submit Inventions to Companies
In looking around the site, you find that while easy to navigate, there is little content yet. The number of inventions per category range from one (Pets: the Sidewalker) to 19 (Tools & Automotive). Under Health & Beauty, I found this gem: the Multi-Function Personal Grooming Apparatus, a MacGyver-like brush with built-in comb and scissors.
The site offers the ability to search for inventions, meet up with service providers and businesses, and provides education through articles and newsletters. It even offers Lisa Lloyd’s 5-hour “How to Invent” Course.
On the other hand, it does offer a listing of intriguing contests for inventors. I especially like this one:
Sports Evolution Challenge
Description: Put your passion for the game to work! Open your Idea Locker and invent a new sport or conceptualize an innovative piece of sports gear or equipment. You could win $10,000 and a chance to shadow an ESPN broadcaster for a game, courtesy of Newell Rubbermaid! For kids under 19 only.
Prizes: $10,000 + shadow an ESPN reporter
Deadline: 12/31/2007
Company Name / Industry: By Kids for Kids
How & Where to Submit Inventions: You may participate at the web site here.
Judging Criteria: For detailed rules, visit here.
Website: http://www.bkfk.com
Only time will tell if this becomes a hit.
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I hope the inventors posting their ideas are aware of the importance of patenting their ideas.
-Ben at http://windycityip.com/
Stephen,
Just wanted to thank you for the review. Let me know if you have any more questions or if there is any way we can help you.
Bryan