Inventors Page
Have a clever idea?
To submit a product invention for review, read our frequently asked questions and then follow our Submission Guidelines and download the Non-Disclosure Form.
Submission Guidelines
Non-Disclosure Form
Due to the volume of submissions received, we accept product submissions only by standard mail or email. Use our contact form and choose "Product Invention Questions" to contact us. The invention idea will be directed to the appropriate category Product Manager. You will be contacted regarding our decision within 90 days. Please do not call during this evaluation period.
Please do not send prototypes or actual tools.
Inventor Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have a patent to submit? No, a patent is not required; however, we do recommend that you file for a patent application before submitting your idea. By applying for a patent, you are protecting yourself from anyone taking your idea.
Does the NDA (non-disclosure form) protect me? No, if you have a patent pending or patented product, that protects you and nothing in the NDA takes that right away. If you do not have a patent or patent pending, then you sign this at your own risk. It’s always good to consult an attorney if you have questions.
Is the Company going to steal my idea? No, the company is not looking to ever steal an idea. We are an ethical and honest company and we do not steal inventor’s ideas. We take our product review process seriously and if there is a product we are interested in pursuing then we will definitely advise you in writing in approximately 90 days upon receipt.
What do I need to submit for consideration? Please return the signed Nondisclosure Form (submissions will not be accepted if this form is not completed and returned) and mail us any information you would like us to review. Please include visuals such as pictures and graphs if available (please note these items will not be returned). Proto-type samples will not be accepted. You will receive notification by mail confirming we have received your information.
What is the process? Your information will go through a three step process. First, our marketing director and their team of product managers will review the information. Secondly, a number of associates in our research and development department will review the information (everyone reviews the information separately and makes notes in your file). For the third and final step in the process marketing and research and development will get together to have a combined meeting where they determine whether they have questions, need more information or will move forward with the idea. They may also determine that they will not be proceeding with your product because it is something we are currently not interested in adding to our line. If that is the case, you will receive notification by mail in approximately 90 days. If more information is needed by you, we will be contacting you by phone or email.
How long does the process take? Please allow a 90 day grace period for our response. Responses will be in letter form via standard mail. We will not respond to inquiries via phone calls, emails or letters during this evaluation time, however please know you will have a response in approximately 90 days from the date of receipt of your submission.
If the company moves forward with my idea how will I be compensated? If the company desires to move forward with your product, both you and Ames True Temper will sit down and write up an agreement. At that time it will be determined whether to compensate you with one lump sum payment or be compensated per unit sold. You would be fully involved in this decision.
If the company does not move forward with my idea, am I able to re-submit at another time? You are more than welcome to resubmit an idea, but suggest waiting one year before submitting the same idea again. We do keep records so we can re-evaluate and idea at any time. If we have interest in potentially proceeding with your idea we will contact you.