Patent Attorney and Founder
Hey inventors, entrepreneurs, and business owners, welcome!
If you’re in Fresno, California, this one’s for you.
I’m JD Houvener, founder and patent attorney at Bold Patents, and today I’m sharing 5 amazing local resources to help you bring your idea to life, faster and smarter.
Over the past 11 years, I’ve heard it all, how lonely this road can feel when you’re trying to build something new. But you’re not as alone as you think. Fresno has some incredible programs and communities ready to support you.
Let’s dive into them, quick, clear, and straight to the point.
1. Bitwise Industries
Bitwise is more than just a co-working space. It’s a tech hub with real support:
- Tech education & bootcamps
- Apprenticeship programs
- Co-working spaces
- Access to mentors and fellow builders
If your idea is solid but your tech skills are still growing, this is a great place to start. Bitwise helped launch Shift3 Technologies, a custom software company making real waves.
2. Fresno State’s Lyle Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship
This one’s tied to the university, which often means free tools and support.
You don’t have to be a student. Many grad students and researchers are looking for real-world projects. That could be your idea. You can even explore licensing your patent to collaborate with the school.
Cool example? FresGo, a civic app that helps people connect with local government, came right out of this program.
3. Central Valley Business Incubator (CVBI)
Think of this as a launchpad. You apply, join a group of early-stage companies, and get:
- Mentorship
- Startup guidance
- Sometimes funding
One success story is OnFarm Systems, an ag-tech company helping farms run smarter with data. CVBI gave them the tools to grow.
4. Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce (FMBCC)
This organization focuses on empowering Black entrepreneurs with:
- Education
- Advocacy
- Business resources
If that’s you, it’s worth checking out. One standout story? The Black Girl Magic Museum, an interactive space celebrating Black women’s achievements. That spark got its start right here.
5. Downtown Fresno Partnership
This one’s all about bringing life back to downtown. Real events. Real handshakes. Real connections.
If you’ve been stuck working from your kitchen table, maybe it’s time to get out there. Pitch your business. Meet investors. Bump into your next collaborator.
One of my favorites: Root General. It’s a boutique-meets-coffee shop that’s helping revitalize the city block by block. Grab a coffee, talk to people, make something happen.
So, if you’re dreaming up the next big thing, but need help protecting it, we’ve got your back.
At Bold Patents, we help Fresno innovators with patents, trademarks, and all things IP. Want to know if your idea is patentable? Reach out.
Let’s make it real.
Go Big Go Bold.