Join the USPTO as we commemorate the 236th anniversary of the first U.S. patent and celebrate 250 years of American innovation. Join us virtually on August 4, 2026, from 1-2 p.m. ET.
What you will learn:
- The history of the first U.S. patent
- How the patent system works today
- Resources available to inventors and small businesses
- How American inventors have shaped the nation over the past 250 years
On July 31, 1790, the United States granted the first U.S. patent to Samuel Hopkins for an improved process for making potash. This patent, signed by George Washington, was the first of nearly 13 million patents the U.S. government has granted.
This program will connect that historic milestone to the present day. Speakers will explore the origins of the patent system, how it supports innovation today, and how inventors, entrepreneurs, and small businesses can use USPTO resources.
This event is part of the agency’s efforts to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and highlight the important role of intellectual property in our nation’s growth.
Agenda
(Subject to change. All times Eastern Time)
| Time | Topic | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| 1:00 – 1:01 p.m. | Welcome and Introduction of Jason Clark | Deepak Dashairya, Innovation Outreach Specialist, Office of Public Engagement, USPTO |
| 1:01–1:03 p.m. | Introduction to USPTO Director | Jason Clark, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Office of the Under Secretary and Director, USPTO |
| 1:03-1:10 p.m. | America 250 and why the first U.S. patent matters in the nation’s 250th year | John A. Squires, Undersecretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO |
| 1:10–1:17 p.m. | “Then” — The birth of American innovation: The first U.S. patent, inventor Samuel Hopkins, and a system created by the nation's founders | Rebekah Oakes, Lead Historian, Office of the Chief Communications Officer, USPTO |
| 1:17–1:24 p.m. | “Now” — How the U.S. patent system works today: examination, prioritized review, and resources for inventors | Speaker: To be announced |
| 1:24–1:55 p.m. | “Next” — Inventors of the next 250 years: a moderated conversation spanning the full arc of American invention | Jay Kriner, Founder & CEO, GALE Project Technologies Julian Kage, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Exactics Elizabeth Dougherty, Southeast Regional Outreach Director, USPTO |
| 1:55–2:00 p.m. | Closing & USPTO resources for inventors and small businesses | Deepak Dashairya, Innovation Outreach Specialist, Office of Public Engagement, USPTO |
For more information, or if you have any questions or comments, please email us at OPEEvents@uspto.gov.
This initiative is educational and informational. The USPTO does not provide legal advice, endorse private entities, or guarantee outcomes. References to events or third parties do not imply endorsement.
Accessibility accommodation
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please submit your request to the contact information listed above.