U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a federal agency responsible for granting patents and registering trademarks in the United States. Patents protect inventions by giving inventors exclusive rights to their inventions for a limited time, while trademarks safeguard brand names and logos, helping consumers identify the source of goods and services. The USPTO ensures that intellectual property rights are respected, promoting innovation and competition. By carefully examining applications, it helps prevent infringement and protects the interests of inventors and businesses. Overall, the USPTO plays a crucial role in fostering creativity and economic growth.