Learn about our work at SXSW and CES
Every year, we help spread the word about intellectual property (IP) at two of the most important technology conferences in the United States: South by Southwest (SWSW) and the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). These conferences have a long and storied history previewing innovations that transform our everyday lives, and which the USPTO incentivizes and protects through intellectual property rights.
Our presence at SXSW Our presence at CES
The USPTO at SXSW
The annual SXSW Conference in Austin, Texas, brings together global professionals at every level to share knowledge, network, and discuss economic and cultural issues. The wide range of participating individuals and organizations have one thing in common: they all work with IP. We host a booth annually at the SXSW Trade Show, where our representatives discuss our services with conference attendees and highlight the importance of protecting ideas and brands through patents and trademarks.
We also present discussion panels on a variety of innovation-related topics. Every year, we submit session proposals and ask for your vote to ensure IP is part of the SXSW conversation. Do you have an IP topic you would like to hear about at SXSW? Send your suggestions to press@uspto.gov.
Learn more
- SXSW blog about the USPTO unveiling a new patent design at the 2018 SXSW festival
- Listen to the USPTO Commissioner for Trademarks discuss protecting your brand at SXSW
The USPTO at CES
CES, which takes place in Las Vegas and is organized by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), is one of the largest and most influential tech trade shows, showcasing cutting-edge innovations in consumer electronics and technology. VCRs, satellite radio, and 3D printers are among the many history-making technologies announced at CES throughout its 55 years. Industry professionals, tech enthusiasts, and media attend this trade show every year to see product launches, attend tech-related panels and discussions, and tour exhibitor booths demonstrating the latest gadgets, devices, and software from major companies and startups.
Each year, we educate independent inventors, small businesses, and entrepreneurs at CES on USPTO resources that can help them develop and protect their new discoveries, proven innovations, and brands in order to maintain a competitive edge in the global markets. In many ways, CES reflects how IP, in all its forms, plays a central role in innovation.
Learn more
- Wired magazine story on the announcement of the National Inventors Hall of Fame 2020 inductees at CES
- WTOP article about the USPTO bringing together 11 federal agencies to showcase innovator resources at CES
- Watch a conversation at CES 2024 with then USPTO Director Kathi Vidal about protecting America's best ideas
