In a recent LinkedIn post, Kathryn V. highlights an innovative approach to making intellectual property (IP) a central and engaging theme at an upcoming event. Kathryn V. is detailing plans for the “Patent-Pending Party,” set to take place during SF Tech Week, presented by a16z, at the historic Transamerica Pyramid.
The event aims to demystify IP for founders and investors, fostering candid conversations and practical strategy sessions. Kathryn V. emphasizes the goal of creating a dynamic environment where discussions around IP are not only informative but also enjoyable.
“San Francisco, who said intellectual property couldn’t be a party?! 🎉”
Kathryn V. explains that the event is designed to bring together a diverse group of individuals from various prominent tech communities. This includes representatives from Hubble, a16z speedrun, Plug and Play, Founder Institute, and Decile Group. The intention, as Kathryn V. outlines, is to facilitate meaningful connections and collaborations among these influential figures.
Key Components of the “Patent-Pending Party”
The event is structured around several key sessions designed to provide tangible value to attendees. Kathryn V. details these components as follows:
Founder Confessions
This segment is dedicated to sharing the unvarnished realities of building a company. Kathryn V. notes that founders will have the opportunity to discuss the challenges and triumphs they’ve experienced, offering lessons learned and insights that could have benefited them earlier in their entrepreneurial journey.
Investor Hot Seat
Here, attendees will gain direct insights into the investor’s perspective. Kathryn V. highlights that investors will share what captures their attention, what raises concerns, and the factors that encourage them to invest further. This offers a crucial look at how businesses and their defensibility are evaluated.
“What gets their attention? What raises red flags? And what makes them lean in and say, ‘Tell me more’? Hear directly from investors about how they evaluate founders, businesses, and defensibility.”
IP Strategy Session
A core focus of the event, as explained by Kathryn V., is practical IP strategy. This session will guide founders on identifying and protecting their unique innovations, brands, and creative works. Topics will cover patent eligibility, trademark protection, copyright for code, and the strategic use of trade secrets.
“Let’s talk about your moat! Do you know what yours is or where to start looking?”
Kathryn V. stresses the importance of understanding one’s business defensibility and how to articulate this effectively in fundraising narratives.
The Live Patent Hackathon
A unique and exciting element, according to Kathryn V., is the live patent filing. One selected founder will have a provisional patent application professionally drafted and filed during the event, culminating in a pitch as a “PATENT-PENDING” founder.
Networking and Exclusive Opportunities
Beyond the structured sessions, Kathryn V. emphasizes the event’s commitment to fostering connections through food, refreshments, and dedicated networking time. She also points out exclusive opportunities for VIP ticket holders, including a personalized Strategic Moat Overview and a private IP strategy session. A select few VIPs may even receive an invitation to an intimate post-event dinner.
Kathryn V. expresses gratitude to Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP for hosting and to Christine Song of the 5 to 9 Society for their sponsorship. She concludes by sharing her anticipation for experiencing the unique energy and stories of San Francisco’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Kathryn V. on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 8, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →