Dr. Connie Wan Leads Launch of Washington State Patent Pro Bono Program at Seattle University Law School

Seattle, WA – Dr. Connie Wan has officially established the Washington State Patent Pro Bono Program, hosted at Seattle University Law School, where she will also serve as the program’s Managing Attorney. This initiative aims to bridge the gap for under-resourced inventors in Washington State, providing them with pro bono assistance to protect and commercialize their innovations.

The WA Patent Pro Bono Program is part of the national patent pro bono network, authorized by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) under the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act (AIA). The program offers low-cost patent services to qualifying individuals and organizations, advancing the mission of the AIA to foster innovation and economic growth across diverse communities. By providing critical resources and legal support, the program empowers inventors who may lack the financial means to bring their ideas to market.

“I am honored to lead this vital initiative in Washington State, bringing essential patent support to inventors who need it most,” said Dr. Connie Wan, Managing Attorney for the WA Patent Pro Bono Program. “By expanding access to patent assistance, we’re not only supporting local entrepreneurs but also fostering a culture of innovation that drives economic development and growth.”

The Washington State Patent Pro Bono Program will be an invaluable resource for inventors seeking patent protection for their ideas, offering guidance on patent applications, intellectual property rights, and commercialization strategies. By housing the program at Seattle University Law School, the initiative will also provide unique learning opportunities for law students, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in intellectual property law under the mentorship of Dr. Wan and other patent law professionals.

For more information about the Washington State Patent Pro Bono Program and how to qualify for assistance, please visit https://law.seattleu.edu.

About the United States Patent Pro Bono Program

The national Patent Pro Bono Program, initiated by the USPTO, is a network of regional programs established to provide free legal assistance to under-resourced inventors across the United States. The program was mandated by the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act (AIA) to promote innovation, inclusion, and accessibility within the patent system. The USPTO works closely with regional partners like the WA Patent Pro Bono Program to provide resources and support for aspiring inventors from diverse backgrounds.