As 2026 begins, we are leaning into momentum, perspective & purposeful action — even as winter reminds us to slow down, stay grounded & focus on what truly moves the work forward.
💡 Patents: Assets vs. Innovation: We spotlight an article published on IPWatchdog examining how patents are increasingly treated as financial assets & what that means for innovation, enforcement & risk assessment.
🔍 When Questions Become Investigations: With an increase in patent-related inquiries & investigation needs, we help develop factual groundwork to clarify marketplace activity, actors involved & alignment with asserted claims.
🎓 Mentoring the Next Generation: As a mentor for students enrolled in Michigan State University’s Brand Protection Experience, we are reflecting on unexpected career paths & lessons learned along the way.
💥 Q4 Charity Drawing Winner: Thank you for your feedback. Congratulations to our winner (JW), who directed a $250 donation to United Way of Forsyth County through our Q4 survey drawing.
📈 What’s Trending: From Disney’s Avatar copyright battle to Nike’s Total 90 win, our top posts continue tracking the IP stories shaping the landscape.
✈️ Looking Ahead: Early 2026 plans are taking shape, with attendance planned at conferences & events including ESCAPADES, IACC’s Annual Conference, NCFTA Disruption & INTA’s Leadership Meeting.
