Frequently Asked Questions

Patent licensing is the process of granting another party permission to use, manufacture, or sell a patented invention in exchange for compensation — typically royalties or a lump-sum payment. ILG helps patent holders identify potential licensees, negotiate terms, and structure deals that maximize the value of their intellectual property.

Most patents have licensing potential, but value depends on several factors: the breadth of claims, the size of the market using the technology, remaining patent life, and whether potential infringers can be identified. ILG offers a free initial assessment to help you understand your patent's potential.

Timelines vary significantly based on the technology, target companies, and negotiation complexity. Simple licensing deals can close in 3-6 months, while more complex campaigns involving multiple targets may take 12-18 months. ILG provides regular progress updates and adjusts strategy as needed throughout the process.

ILG works across all technology areas including software, hardware, biotech, manufacturing processes, consumer products, and more. We have particular expertise in semiconductor, telecommunications, IoT, and medical device patents. Our team evaluates each patent on its individual merits regardless of technology domain.

Every engagement is different — pricing depends on your patent or portfolio, the scope of work, and the strategy involved, so we quote each engagement individually. Call us at (650) 567-0061 or schedule a free consultation and we will prepare a custom quote. Many engagements include a success-fee component, meaning ILG is invested in your outcome.

A success fee is a percentage of revenue generated from licensing deals that ILG helps close. You only pay the success fee when money comes in — there is no risk of paying for results that do not materialize. This aligns ILG's incentives directly with yours: we only succeed when you do.

Engagements are project-based agreements with clear milestones and deliverables. The scope, terms, and timeline are laid out in your quote, so you know exactly what is included before you commit.

You will receive access to the ILG Portal where you can upload your patent information and complete your profile, and an ILG advisor will schedule an onboarding call within 48 hours to discuss your goals, review your patent, and develop an initial strategy.

ILG uses a combination of AI-powered analysis, patent claim mapping, industry databases, and expert research to identify companies that may be using technology covered by your patent. We build comprehensive target lists typically ranging from 25 to 500+ companies depending on the technology and the scope of your engagement.

Most licensing programs are resolved through professional negotiation without litigation. However, if a company is clearly using your technology and refuses to negotiate in good faith, ILG can help evaluate litigation options and connect you with specialized IP litigation firms. Litigation management can be included in your engagement if needed.

That is up to you. Some clients prefer to handle negotiations themselves with ILG guidance and templates; others have ILG negotiate directly on their behalf, keeping them informed at every step while we handle the heavy lifting. Your preferred level of involvement is built into the engagement.

Absolutely. Most of our clients come to us in exactly this position. Start with a free consultation where we will review your patent, discuss your goals, and recommend the best path forward.

While legal counsel is recommended for reviewing final agreements, you do not need a lawyer to begin the licensing process. ILG handles the business development, target identification, outreach, and initial negotiations. We recommend engaging legal counsel when a deal reaches the term sheet stage.

Yes, though timing is important. Patents with less than 5 years remaining can still be valuable, especially if there is clear evidence of use by large companies. Past damages for infringement can also be pursued for up to 6 years prior. Contact us early to maximize the remaining value window.

ILG combines AI-powered tools with hands-on expert management, scopes every engagement to the client's goals and budget, and operates on a success-fee model that aligns our interests with yours. Unlike large patent assertion entities, ILG provides personalized attention and transparent communication throughout the process.