About the National Academy of Inventors

The National Academy of Inventors (NAI) is a member organization comprising U.S. and international universities; governmental agencies; and non-profit research institutes. Currently, there are over 4,600 individual members, including Fellows, Senior Members, and Chapter Members, affiliated with more than 300 institutions worldwide.

The mission and goal of the NAI is to recognize and encourage inventors with U.S. patents, enhance the visibility of academic technology transfer and innovation, encourage disclosure of intellectual property, and educate and mentor innovative students. The NAI also works to create a wider public understanding of how its members' inventions benefit society. 

The University of Iowa, sponsored by UIRF, is a member of the NAI, and as such, UI faculty, staff and students have access to a number of different educational materials dedicated to enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship. 

UIRF recommends starting with the Intellectual Property course offered by the NAI. The curriculum is free and there are no fees or charges associated with it. At your own pace, take the online IP course consisting of 12 video modules and 38 lessons. After completing the course, there is a final exam consisting of 40 questions. If you answer 30 of the questions correctly, you will receive an Innovation Development Certificate from the National Academy of Inventors.