The patent process is a nightmare for an adult, let alone younger patrons. Fortunately FIRST--an organization dedicated to bringing STEM programs and activities to young students--is giving middle schoolers an opportunity to invent and patent their own designs without any of these obstacles.

The first successful application for a sound mark was registered in 1978 and was filed by NBC. Thirty-five years out, it is still a notoriously long and difficult process. So when I'm asked by another business owner if they can trademark a sound, I always have to give a "yes, but..." answer for the following reasons.