Patent Attorney and Founder
Hey everyone, thanks for stopping by our Bold Patents page here in Lexington. I want to share a few helpful spots in the city that can make your path as an inventor or business owner a little less lonely.
I’m JD Houvener, the owner and patent attorney at Bold Patents. I’ve worked with inventors for years, and I know the early steps can feel big. It’s easy to think you’re the only one trying to build something new. You’re not. Lexington has a strong mix of people, groups, and programs that can give you support in person or online. I pulled together five solid places to start.
1. Awesome Inc.
This group is a tech-focused hub. They offer a mix of classes, a shared workspace, and constant startup events. You’ll see pitch nights, meetups, and a tight community. It’s a great place to meet other founders.
A quick warning: if you plan to pitch your idea in public, that can count as a “public disclosure.” That starts a one-year clock for filing a patent. If you’re close to sharing your idea, talk with a patent attorney first so you can file a provisional application and protect your rights.
2. Launch Blue
This program runs out of the University of Kentucky. It’s an accelerator with hands-on training and group-style support for inventors tied to the school. These programs often ask you to apply, so don’t assume you’ll get in on day one. Talk with a business attorney or patent attorney before you apply so you have the right setup for your company.
3. ASTCC
This stands for the Advanced Science and Technology Commercialization Center. It’s another UK-connected incubator, but this one is geared toward early-stage, high-tech ideas in the STEM fields. Universities often look for people who can take lab work and bring it into the real world. If you like that space, this might fit you well.
4. Startup Lex and Minority Business Development
Startup Lex helps founders meet the right people. They host events and keep a helpful startup library. They also focus on minority-owned companies and offer funding support. If you have a basic plan in place and need a push, this is a smart stop.
5. Coldstream Research Campus and Bluegrass Ag Tech
This area is tied to the University of Kentucky and focuses on agriculture and biotech. The campus covers 735 acres and gives space for testing new work in animal health, biotech, and similar fields. If your idea touches food, farming, or vet care, take a look here.
That’s the full list. I hope these spots help you find your next step here in Lexington. Have a great day out there. Go big. Go bold.