In this episode, European and German Patent Attorney Bastian Best unpacks why every startup needs a patent strategy—and why it’s never too early to start.

Drawing from over 15 years of experience in software and AI patents, Bastian shares actionable advice for founders, including how to protect core innovations, attract investors, and turn patents into strategic business assets. Using real-world examples like Humane’s AI Pin and RobCo’s robotics journey, this episode is packed with insights to help startups build a defensible position in competitive markets.

Why patents are essential even for early-stage startups
How patents act as shields, magnets, and value generators
Key steps for navigating freedom to operate and avoiding common pitfalls

Bastian’s practical approach helps founders move beyond the myths of patenting to create lasting value for their startups.

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CONNECT WITH BASTIAN: 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠/bastianbest/ 🌐 Bastian’s patent law firm BESTPATENT: https://bestpatent.eu/

💡fundingmagnet.de - Bastian’s AI-powered coaching program that helps European founders achieve their first patent-pending status with just a few hours of time. CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠followthegradient.io⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🐦 X:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠x.com/followgradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Spotify 💛⁠⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Podcast

Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

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