IP Essentials for Entrepreneurs is a practical course that equips entrepreneurs, founders, executives, and investors with a full picture of the IP ecosystem in the US and abroad. Participants will learn about the major forms of protectable IP; what to expect when they (or others) enforce their IP; and strategies to efficiently and effectively leverage IP to their competitive advantage.
This course is part of our 2025 Subscription Program
key topics
UNDERSTANDING THE IP LANDSCAPE: Gain foundational knowledge of key concepts, types, and methods in IP.
NAVIGATING IP ENFORCEMENT: Learn the ins and outs of protecting your idea.
THE IP MINDSET: Learn to think like an IP lawyer.
IP & YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY: How to develop a comprehensive, long-term IP strategy.
STARTS: Sep 11th
LENGTH: 3 Weeks
FORMAT: Self-paced + Live Office Hours
OFFICE HOURS: Thursday from 1 to 2:30 pm ET
OFFERED: Once a year
PRICE
HarvardAE Members $199
Non Members $299
Does not include transaction fees. No refunds.
Who should TAKE THIS COURSE
ENTREPRENeurS & FOUNDERS
Why: To safeguard your innovations and build defensible businesses.
business leaders & executives
Why: To understand how IP can be leveraged for growth, partnerships, and market positioning.
MANAGERS & INNOVATORS
Why: To create unique products, and protect and monetize them
FEATURES
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This course provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, combining pre-recorded sessions, expert presentations, thought-provoking case studies, and interactive group discussions. Designed to deliver practical insights and actionable strategies, this immersive program equips you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate complex challenges and propel you toward success.
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This course features an expert instructor who bring real-world experience and deep industry insights to the table. By learning directly from accomplished professionals, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and achieving success. These sessions provide a unique chance to hear practical advice, ask questions, and connect with leaders who have excelled in their fields. This access to expertise not only enhances your knowledge but also inspires new strategies to apply in your own journey.
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This course emphasizes the power of peer learning through collaborative, small-group sessions. By engaging with fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders, you’ll exchange insights, tackle challenges, and refine strategies in real time. These peer group discussions foster diverse perspectives, offering fresh ideas and practical solutions to complex problems. This collaborative approach not only deepens your understanding but also builds a supportive network of like-minded professionals to help you succeed long after the program concludes.
INSTRUCTORS:
Caryn Torczyner is an associate at Weiss & Arons, where she focuses on patent protection, due diligence, legal analysis, and related intellectual property matters. She earned her J.D. cum laude from Harvard Law School and holds a B.A. in Chemistry summa cum laude from Yeshiva University. During her undergraduate studies, she received multiple academic honors, including the Professor Moses Isaacs Memorial Award for Excellence in Chemistry. Caryn also conducted biomedical research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, investigating potential biochemical triggers of autoimmune pathways leading to myocarditis.
Shoshana Rogovsky advises clients on a wide range of trademark matters, including clearance, prosecution, brand protection, and enforcement. She develops and implements trademark strategies, manages global portfolios, and regularly handles disputes in federal court, before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB), and in UDRP proceedings.
Shoshana works closely with foreign counsel to coordinate international trademark filings, oppositions, cancellations, and ongoing portfolio maintenance. Active in the intellectual property community, she is a member of the International Trademark Association, the New York State Bar Association’s IP Law Section, and the Westchester Women’s Bar Association.
Module One: IP Basics
Joel Weiss is Managing Partner at Weiss & Arons LLP and a registered patent attorney. He advises technology-focused companies—ranging from consumer electronics to medical devices—on IP strategy, portfolio development, and enforcement.
Joel has led strategic IP programs supporting major business milestones, including one of the largest internet company acquisitions to date. He has particular expertise in analog and digital circuitry, semiconductor processing, and medical devices.
He represents clients in patent, trademark, copyright, and unfair competition matters, advocating before patent offices, courts, and administrative bodies.
Joel earned his J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1997.
Module Two: We Got A Patent - Now What?
David Ungar is a registered patent attorney with nearly a decade of experience helping clients protect and leverage their intellectual property. He focuses on patent prosecution across a range of technologies, especially software and AI, and also handles matters in electronics, biotech, and mechanical devices.
David advises on trademarks, copyrights, and brand protection, and has strong experience in IP transactions from his time at Cravath, Swaine & Moore, including licensing, due diligence, and M&A support. He also has experience in IP litigation.
With a blend of technical expertise and legal strategy, David supports startups and established companies in building and managing high-impact IP portfolios.
Module Three: Thinking Like an IP Attorney