October is National Intellectual Property (IP) Month—a time to celebrate America’s inventors, creators, and innovators whose ideas fuel our economy, strengthen our national security, and improve lives across the nation. This year, the Congressional Inventions Project (CIP) marked the occasion with a dynamic food truck event on Capitol Hill, bringing together Congressional staff, policymakers, and innovation leaders to learn how IP shapes every aspect of American progress. The event attracted over 250 Congressional staff – from over 100 Congressional offices – who “popped” on over to celebrate IP over bags of CIP branded popcorn accompanied by informational handouts.

Intellectual Property: The Engine of U.S. Innovation

Intellectual Property rights are foundational to U.S. competitiveness. In 2024, over $5 trillion in existing IP supported jobs across every state and industry—powering businesses large and small. U.S. R&D spending reached $799 billion, reflecting the continued investment in new technologies, products, and services that define the modern economy. And IP-intensive jobs continue to offer a significant wage premium—averaging $18,483 more per year than non-IP roles—highlighting how innovation drives not only progress but prosperity.

America’s innovators also play a critical role in the global marketplace. IP-licensed exports totaled $140.36 billion in 2024, reinforcing how U.S. creativity and invention remain key exports in an increasingly knowledge-based economy.

Bringing IP Education to Capitol Hill

The recent CIP event on Capitol Hill was designed to raise the awareness of IP to Congressional staff in a fun, creative and communal approach. Attendees also learned about the work of the Congressional Inventions Caucus, a growing group which provides Senators and Representatives a forum for educating themselves and their colleagues on the real-world impact of IP laws and promotes legislative solutions that strengthen the innovation ecosystem.

States Recognize October as IP Month

Across the country, a growing number of states have joined in recognizing October as Intellectual Property Month by issuing proclamations. These states include California, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C. These proclamations reinforce that innovation starts locally—but its impact reaches globally.

Join the Movement to Support America’s Inventors

The Congressional Inventions Project invite Members of Congress and their staff to learn more about IP’s impact on jobs, wages, and economic growth—and to join the effort to ensure that America continues to lead the world in innovation.

To learn more, visit congressionalinventionsproject.org and explore the Dear Colleague letter inviting Members to participate in the Congressional Inventions Caucus.