The USPTO's Standard-Essential Working Group launches SPARK pilot program to strengthen U.S. standards development leadership
Further to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Standard-Essential Patent Working Group (WG) core objectives to restore robust remedies for patent holders, engage stakeholders and promote transparency, and facilitation of meaningful participation in standards development, the WG today announces the launch of its Standards Participation and Representation Kudos (SPARK) pilot program directed to U.S. small and medium-sized businesses, universities, and non-profit organizations. Under the pilot program, examination of certain patent applications and applications in ex parte appeals to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) may be expedited if the U.S.-domiciled juristic applicant meaningfully participated in a voluntary consensus-based standards development organizations (SDOs) and meets the requirements of the program. The application or appeal being expedited does not need to be related to the SDO participation.
Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USPTO/bulletins/41a0b54