Articles
Guides for founders naming a business
Step-by-step articles on trademark searches, domain strategy, social handle availability, and the legal pitfalls that quietly kill brands.
Availability
LLC name availability check: how to do it right, in 20 minutes
Run an LLC name availability check the right way. State Secretary of State search, federal trademark check, plus the 5 mistakes that force rebrands.
Availability
How to check business name availability across domains and social
A practical walkthrough of how to check whether your business name is available across domains and social media platforms, including which compromises are okay and which actually hurt the brand.
Trademarks
How to check if a business name is trademarked (free guide)
A complete walkthrough of how to search the USPTO trademark database, interpret results, and know when to hire a lawyer. Free, in plain English.
Naming
How to choose a business name (with checklist)
A practical framework for naming a business well: the four criteria that matter, how to generate 50 candidates, how to filter in four cuts, and an 8-point checklist for scoring finalists.
Trademarks
How to do a free USPTO trademark search
A practical walkthrough of USPTO's free trademark search tool, including the three searches every founder should actually run, how to read the results, and where DIY hits its limits.
Trademarks
What happens if you use a trademarked business name?
A practical walkthrough of the actual consequences of using a trademarked business name, from cease-and-desist letters to federal litigation, with real cost ranges and what to do if you receive a C&D.