Business Starting Grants

How do i protect a business idea?

I have a great business idea but i cant give it out until i protect it. So how do i legally protect it in USA?

Public Comments

1. You can't patent a busines idea. That's why there are so many fastfood restaurants. But, if you sell or manufacture a specific,usefull and original product. You are entitled to a patent that gives you ownership of the product. You can trademark or Copyright your Company Logo or name. Like CocaCola,McDonalds,Nike. But,hamburgers,soft drinks and shoes can't be patented.
2. Apply for a patent. Make sure you apply for the right one though. There are different types, but I'm not sure what they are called. The formula for WD-40 has never been patented. In order for it to be patented, they would have to write down the secret formula. Someone could then steal it at the least, but in the end the patent would expire and everyone would know. So they decided to not patent it and forever keep the formula a secret. It was also designed to be a water displacement formula, which is where WD come from. P.S. I was unaware you can't patent a business idea, so strike the first part of my answer.