Minnesota residents have access to a host of unique resources and assistance in their state. Certain libraries are designated as Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRC), which provide resources and trained staff to help customers use and understand USPTO information and filing systems. Additionally, our Midwest Elijah J. McCoy Regional Outreach Office provides additional support and resources for customers in the Midwest region of the United States.
We suggest calling ahead of your visit for hours of operation, services, and fees.
Get connected in your state
Explore opportunities and assistance available near you.
Get free patent and trademark legal assistance
Patent Pro Bono Program
Minnesota inventors are served by the LegalCORPS Inventor Assistance Program, part of the USPTO's nationwide pro bono program that matches inventors who qualify (based on income) with volunteer attorneys and patent professionals that will help you file your patent application.
Law school clinics
Minnesota inventors and entrepreneurs can obtain free legal help for both patent and trademark matters by contacting:
- Mitchell Hamline School of Law (patents and trademarks): jean.backes@mitchellhamline.edu
- University of St. Thomas School of Law (trademarks): IPCtrademark@stthomas.edu
- Indiana University McKinney School of Law (patents and trademarks): ipclinic@indiana.edu
- University of Notre Dame Law School (patents and trademarks): ipclinic@nd.edu
In addition to the law school clinics listed above, there are 19 law school clinics that provide free patent and trademark services to all residents of the United States regardless of location.
Network with inventor and entrepreneur organizations in your state
Inventor clubs and organizations can be a great way to connect with local inventors and entrepreneurs and open more doors to resources and opportunities. Below are a list of organizations in Minnesota. If you represent an inventor group or nonprofit and would like to have your organization listed here, please email midwest@uspto.gov.
U.S. Small Business Administration, Minnesota District (SBA)
https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/mn/minneapolis
(612) 370-2324
Minneapolis.mn@sba.gov
West Central MN Small Business Development Center (WC MN SBDC)
https://westcentralmnsbdc.com/
(218) 299-3037
sbdc@cord.edu
Attend an eventFind a registered patent attorney
Do you have suggestions for resources to include on this page? Please contact midwest@uspto.gov.