The National Summer Teacher Institute (NSTI) is a free, three-day virtual professional development opportunity for elementary, middle, high school, and postsecondary educators, as well as anyone interested in increasing their knowledge of concepts of making, inventing, and intellectual property (IP) creation and protection.
NSTI brings together educators and the general public across the country to explore the frontiers of creativity, invention, IP, and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re just beginning your innovation journey or looking to take your curriculum to the next level, NSTI 2025 offers practical tools, engaging activities, and inspiring connections to support you and your communities. The program is open nationwide to all interested in educating the public about IP.
If you have questions regarding the National Summer Teacher Institute, visit our NSTI FAQ webpage or contact NSTI_Applications@uspto.gov.
Agenda
(Subject to change. All times Eastern Time)
Day 1 | Building a strong innovation ecosystem
Monday, July 21, 2025
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET (8 a.m. to noon PT)
| Time | Session | Session description |
|---|---|---|
| 11-11:30 a.m. | Welcome from the USPTO | Learn how educators power the U.S. innovation economy. |
| 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | SCAMPER Method for Creative Problem Solving | Jumpstart invention thinking with this engaging ideation tool. |
| 12:30-12:45 p.m. | Break | |
| 12:45-1:30 p.m. | IP 101: Patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets | Understand patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets in plain terms. |
| 1:30-1:45 p.m. | Break | |
| 1:45-2 p.m. | Invention Challenge introduction: Ideation phase | Bring ideas to life using USPTO invention tools. |
| 2-3 p.m. | Does my invention exist? | Discover how students can search inventions and prior art. |
| 3 p.m. | Reflection |
Day 2 | From ideas to impact: The innovation process
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET (8 a.m. to noon PT)
| Time | Session | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| 11 a.m. to noon | Introduction to trademarks | Dive into how brands are protected and marketed. |
| Noon to 12:15 p.m. | Break | |
| 12:15-1:15 p.m. | Copyright fundamentals | Understand the do’s and don’ts of using creative works. |
| 1:15-1:30 p.m. | Break | |
| 1:30-3 p.m. | Workshop: USPTO Invention Challenge | Collaborate with others in a high-energy team design sprint. |
| 3 p.m. | Reflection |
Day 3 | Empowering innovators: From inspiration to action
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET (8:00 a.m. – noon PT)
| Time | Session | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| 11 a.m. to noon | Breakout sessions by USPTO regional offices | Connect with local regional office and outreach officers. |
| Noon to 12:15 p.m. | Break | |
| 12:15-1:15 p.m. | How do I get started? | Hear the stories of real inventors, get practical tips, and learn about USPTO resources. |
| 1:15-1:30 p.m. | Break | |
| 1:30-2:45 p.m. | USPTO Invention Challenge pitchouts | Cheer on educators as they present their invention ideas. |
| 2:45-3 p.m. | Closing ceremony | Celebrate your journey and stay connected with the USPTO. |
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.