How an outside idea reaches a company, in its own words · checked 2026-10-29
How to sell an idea to 3M
Has a submission portal
3M takes ideas for patented products through a form on its idea submission policy page, which asks for the patent. Nothing is held in confidence, and a submission becomes 3M’s, unpaid. It has bought Scott Safety and Cogent.
“This form asks for your contact information, your Patented Idea and for information concerning your granted or issued patent.”
What you agree to by sending something
“However, 3M has a policy that does not allow 3M or its employees to accept on a confidential basis, or to agree to hold in confidence, any unsolicited ideas, suggestions, proposals, product concepts, and the like.”
“Your submission and its contents automatically become the property of 3M, without any compensation of any kind owed to you;”
What it has bought from outside
2019
Acelity / KCI (wound care) from Acelity owners $6.7 billion
“In October 2019, Acelity and its KCI subsidiaries worldwide were acquired by 3M for $6.7 billion, including assumption of debt and other adjustments.” en.wikipedia.org
2017
Scott Safety from Johnson Controls International $2 billion
“In March 2017, 3M purchased Johnson Controls International Plc's safety gear business, Scott Safety, for $2 billion.” en.wikipedia.org
2010
Cogent Systems from Cogent Systems shareholders $943 million
“In August 2010, 3M acquired Cogent Systems for $943 million,” en.wikipedia.org
Other companies that take an invention or product idea
