USPTO Launches ‘Trademarks For Humanity’ Awards Program

In IP Blog

Takeaway: The USPTO is launching an awards program, recognizing trademark owners who help solve humanitarian problems.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Monday announced that it is launching a new awards program recognizing trademark owners who are helping to solve humanitarian challenges through their products and services.

The inaugural “Trademarks for Humanity” awards program will focus on the environment, and those who own an active U.S. trademark registration — on trademarks, service marks, certification marks, collective marks or collective membership marks — are eligible to apply.

Applications will be accepted from April 11 through July 14 or until 200 applications are received, whichever occurs first. Winners will be recognized at a public awards ceremony and be featured on the agency’s website.

In a statement Monday, USPTO Director Kathi Vidal encouraged brand owners from all “organizational structures, business sectors, geographic areas and demographic backgrounds” to apply.