What is Trademark?

A trademark is a sign that distinguishes the goods and services of one trader from those of others. Reputation and brand image are intangible asset of an enterprise. Any distinctive element, such as words, letters, numerals, drawings, pictures, shapes, colors, labels, or any combination of these, can be used as a mark.

What obstacles may entrepreneurs face down the road if they choose not to trademark their business name or logo?

If entrepreneurs choose not to trademark their name and logo; they risk others adopting and using similar trademarks and logos, they risk losing the presumptions of ownership and validity a trademark registration provides. They risk loss of nationwide rights to the mark and being limited to the area where they do the most business and they do not have the right to use the ® symbol.