As the cannabis industry emerges from start-up to major economic player, the protection of intellectual property becomes all the more critical. This expert panel will discuss the options available to protect trademarks at the state and federal level, how to apply for and obtain a federal patent, and how to protect designations of origin (much like we protect Champagne or Bordeaux in France). The panelist will draw upon their professional expertise, as well as their practical experience in applying for and successfully receiving trademark and patent protections. A white paper summarizing the author’s recommendations will be released this summer by NCIA’s Policy Council.