Volunteer

Lend your expertise to inventors who need it most

Community IP connects volunteer patent professionals, law students, mentors, and business advisors with underserved inventors — subject to screening and program capacity.

Why volunteer

Your skills can change someone's trajectory

Most inventors we serve are first-timers with great ideas and no access to IP guidance. Even a few hours can help someone take a meaningful first step.

Direct impact

Help inventors from underrepresented communities explore and pursue ideas they might otherwise set aside.

Structured support

Community IP handles intake, screening, and coordination so you can focus on what you do best.

Flexible commitment

Volunteer on your schedule — mentoring, education sessions, or pro bono case support.

Pro bono experience

Law students and early-career professionals gain real-world IP exposure in a mission-driven setting.

Who can help

We welcome a range of professionals

Patent attorneysPatent agentsLaw studentsIP paralegalsTrademark professionalsBusiness mentorsCommunity advisorsEntrepreneurs

Commitment

What volunteering could look like

Exact opportunities depend on program capacity and your availability. Examples below — not guarantees.

Pro bono case support

Assist qualifying inventors through established pro bono frameworks, where applicable and subject to screening.

Education & workshops

Lead or co-host IP seminars for community groups, schools, or startup programs.

Mentoring sessions

One-on-one conversations about options and next steps — educational in nature unless under an approved pro bono structure.

Get started

Express your interest

Tell us about your background and how you'd like to help. All volunteers are screened before participating.

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All volunteers are subject to screening and approval. Submitting this form does not create any professional obligation or attorney-client relationship.

Important: This is not legal advice

Community IP provides educational information and intake support only. Nothing on this platform constitutes legal advice, and submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. We cannot guarantee services, funding, or legal representation.