Honoring innovation

Recognition programs for inventors and entrepreneurs

Do you know an innovator who’s making a difference in the world? Or a student pioneering a new technology? Check out our awards and competitions to get them the recognition they deserve. For more information on the USPTO's awards programs, email linda.hosler@uspto.gov, National Outreach Partnerships Manager.

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National Inventors Hall of Fame

Men and women in black tie attire being honored on-stage under.

The National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) celebrates the visionaries whose inventions have changed the world. 

Nominate an inventor  

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Medal of Technology and Innovation

National Medal of Technology and Innovation worn against a person's blazer

The National Medal of Technology and Innovation (NMTI) is the nation’s highest honor for technological achievement.

NMTI recipients

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Collegiate Inventors Competition

Three East Asian students stand in suits talking to a USPTO female employee who is wearing a red dress.

The Collegiate Inventors Competition connects inventive spirit with entrepreneurship among the country’s universities. 

Meet the 2024 finalists

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Croak Visiting Scholars Program

Marian Croak is honored at the State of Black Women Summit, an internal event for Googlers, in November 2019.

The Dr. Marian Rogers Croak Visiting Scholars Program enlists academic researchers to study IP issues that further the agency's mission.

About Marian Croak

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Patents for Humanity

Patents for Humanity

Patents for Humanity is the USPTO’s awards competition recognizing innovators who use game-changing technology to meet global humanitarian challenges. 

Watch the 2024 awards

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Trademarks for Humanity

Trademarks for Humanity graphic

The USPTO’s Trademarks for Humanity awards program recognizes brand owners who are harnessing the power of trademarks to help solve humanitarian challenges.

Read about the 2024 winners

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