Who
We Are
The Foundation for Design Integrity (FDI) was formed
in 1994 to promote original design and to fight the
unethical and illegal practice of manufacturing knockoffs.
Today, more than 130 leading design companies work together
to promote awareness within the industry about the importance
of protecting original design and to assist members
in preventing the unlicensed duplication of their proprietary
product designs.
What
We Do
FDI accomplishes its goals through education, protection
and information. The Education Program brings industry
leaders and experts on intellectual property law together
with members of the community in seminars, public
forums and round table discussions. The Protection
Program works closely with noted attorney Susan E.
Farley, Esq., of Heslin, Rothenberg, Farley and Mesiti,
P.C. to bring the most current information about intellectual
property law to members in a timely manner. FDI members
also have exclusive access to a Patent Initiative
that makes obtaining patents easier and more affordable.
An extensive network of peers with similar experiences,
dedicated to finding effective solutions, is one of
the most valuable benefits of FDI membership.
Why
It's Important
FDI's mission has its roots in the First Amendment
to the Constitution, which states "[The Congress
shall have power] To promote the progress of science
and useful arts, by securing for limited times to
authors and inventors the exclusive right to the respective
writings and discoveries." FDI protects designers'
profits from their designs - the "useful arts"
- which is their "exclusive right" under
the constitution. While it is an educational organization,
FDI's influence also touches on legal and business
issues.
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