Starting a new business is very exciting and choosing the name, incorporating, and branding are often the keys to success. In New York, deciding to trademark your startup is fundamental during business formation and planning. A trademark guards your business against other people’s misuse of your brand. There are protections against arbitrarily hijacking a business name, but the value of having a legitimate trademark ensures ownership.
Why you should trademark your startup business name
Brand building is essential to any successful business. As a startup owner, your business name should stand out and not be mistaken for another company. Acronyms and text abbreviations can easily confuse consumers and result in missed opportunities.
Another necessary component to business formation and planning is securing investment capital. Trademarking your business name allows investors to trust you. Banks and other capital resources evaluate risks when investing in new companies. Knowing your brand is trademarked reassures investors allowing them to take your business seriously.
How a trademark protects your business name
Young companies are vulnerable to lawsuits based on copyrights, trademarks, and other holdings. Older businesses may file a lawsuit to eliminate or reduce competition. In other cases, similarities are coincidental but still result in expensive legal hassles.
When you apply for a trademark during the business formation and planning stage, you reduce vulnerability.
Once you have decided that a trademark is right for your business, you can apply through the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Once you complete the forms, submit them, and have them reviewed, you will receive a decision on your application. Using an attorney to help with the trademark application process can save your business time and money.