How an outside idea reaches a company, in its own words · checked 2026-10-29
How to sell an idea to Colgate-Palmolive
Has a submission portal
Colgate-Palmolive takes product ideas through its submission website, colgatepalmolive.yet2.com, and pays nothing for a first submission. It has bought Tom’s of Maine and Softsoap.
“There are two main ways to contribute to Colgate-Palmolive product development, you can submit a product idea through our submission website, or sign up to participate in clinical product trials.”
What you agree to by sending something
“There will be no reward for your initial submission of an idea through this portal.”
What it says it looks for
“However, Colgate is willing to discuss early stage general and non-confidential ideas before a patent filing has been made or before it has been published.”
What it has bought from outside
2006
Tom's of Maine (84% stake) from Tom and Kate Chappell (founders) $100 million
“In 2006, a controlling 84% stake in Tom's of Maine was purchased by Colgate-Palmolive for $100 million;” en.wikipedia.org
1987
Softsoap from Robert Taylor / The Minnetonka Corporation
“He sold the brand to Colgate-Palmolive in 1987.” en.wikipedia.org
Other companies that take an invention or product idea
