Students and Learners Division

The Students and Learners Division (SLD) works to unlock the ingenuity, creativity, and problem-solving skills of America's next generation of inventors, creators, and entrepreneurs. SLD engages students through STEM, intellectual property, innovation, and entrepreneurship concepts by developing digital resources such as EquIP HQ, and implementing hands-on content for students, learners, families, and informal educators in out-of-school settings (afterschool programs, museums, libraries, youth-serving organizations, community centers, etc.). SLD supports workforce development and pathways opportunities for students of all abilities through work-based learning programs, and implements expansion of outreach to a variety of educational and academic institutions, including Minority-Serving Institutions, in collaboration with national and trusted community partners.

Visit our students page to explore opportunities, activities, and resources created by USPTO to support students and learners in their innovation journeys. 

Speaker request

To request a speaker, fill out the Speaker Request Form.


About the Office of Public Engagement

The SLD is part of the Office of Public Engagement (OPE), the USPTO office responsible for advancing its mission to increase participation in the innovation ecosystem and educate people on the purpose and value of IP and the resources available to bring innovation to impact.   

Other OPE offices

Innovation Outreach Division

The Innovation Outreach Division (IOD) develops awareness and outreach programs and training for inventors, organizations, and universities.