Here are 11 steps to find targeted companies:

1. Use A to Z databases from your local library, ThomasNet or other business directories and search for companies within your invention’s category or industry. 
2. Make a list of these companies and research each website to assure a good fit.  Only include companies on your list that have a related lineup of products.
3. Check these company websites for open innovation, research and development, technology transfer, or intellectual property pages to see if they have a history of accepting outside innovation.
4. Search Google Patents for intellectual property from these companies to see if you can find insight into the company’s innovation efforts and licensing activities.
5. Look for news articles from the company about licensing or innovation.
6. Small to medium sized companies are most often open to innovation offers and make good candidates.
7. Identify the Open Innovation Manager, Purchasing Manager or Product Development Manager (or Owner, Founder, CEO of smaller companies) for each company as a point of contact. 
8. Using these resources and others such as LinkedIn, Google or direct calls to the company, obtain phone numbers and email addresses for these individuals and Call or send personalized email messages inviting them to view your listing.
9. When direct calling companies, don’t underestimate the power of a good friendly conversation with the receptionist.  Ask if the company works with inventors and who they recommend would be most helpful.  Ask for emails and names.  Write down all answers as well as their name so that you can hopefully talk with them again.
10. When sending direct emails include a brief personal message, the listing link and separate directions to the Remarkable Venture website so they know you are not a scammer.  Include a call to action by asking them to view your listing.

Example:

Subject: About Your Product Line

Hi Mr. Smith,

After reviewing your product lineup on (website), I wanted to share an innovation that solves a related customer problem.  Please take 30 seconds and see if my Remarkable Venture listing interests you.

View my listing at RemarkableVenture.com/Listing12345

Or if you prefer, go to RemarkableVenture.com in your web browser and search 12345 in the search bar. Thanks you for your time!

Sincerely,

      11. Follow up the next day with a phone call inviting them personally to view your listing.  Administrators often refer you to voicemail which can also be effective.  Phone call follow ups (next day) are encouraged.

If you followed these steps and met your goal of targeted companies, allowing them time to view your listing but don’t see results, keep trying.  The next step is to review and optimize your listing and try again.  Reach out to the same companies as well as new ones as you find them.  Wait at least 5 days before emailing them each time. 

Bonus methods

• Share your listing link on social media regularly. 
• Share with interest groups that are related to your idea.
• Share with family and friends that may know someone who works for an innovation seeking company. 

Remember to keep your message brief and include the link.  

Don’t be discouraged if there are not immediate results.  Remain persistent and keep a positive attitude.  Continue gathering feedback from the community, optimizing your listing and reaching out.  Remember that you want to be in the top percentage of ideas that make it to market, so be determined to be successful!

To continue the Remarkable Venture Inventing series, read: Do This After Creating Your Remarkable Venture Listing next.

Please help the community by adding your expertise relating to this article or asking/answering questions in the group discussion below.  Remarkable Venture does not offer legal advice.  Consult with a qualified Attorney for decisions concerning your particular needs.