Is the financial investment worth the risk?

I have an idea for a product and have gone to Davidson Inc. with my idea and they have sent me a contract outlining what they will do with my idea. They will research it, find companies who may license it, then put together a portifolio, and let me decide if I want them to create a prototype for actual presentation. The catch is, it's about $700 for the research and portfolio, then potentially up to 15K for creation of a prototype with which to take to companies for them to consider. I think my idea is a good one, I know of nothing like it on the market, and I believe in it's marketability. (esp. compared to some of the crap out there in stores) What I want to know is if any one has experience with this company, and feedback. Does anyone know of the cheapest way to promote an idea or product. I can't make one. I could draw a picture with a written description. I was advised to not get a patent right away, as the product itself may require revision.

The final product would then get the patent. I know to get a patent is a complicated process. There are other companies out there that will take a patented idea and work with it, only if they like the idea though. I told my contact at Davidson that I would talk with him again on Friday regarding my decision. I need some good business advice.

Unless you have the knowledge or resources to make a prototype yourself, your going to need a company to help you. However like the previous poster said if they are the ones that advised you not to get a patent then i'd be very wary. There are reputable companies that do deal in this but I couldn't tell you who. You could go with the private investors but again unless you can make it, or know someone who can what good will that money do?

ladado

rather than giving away cash....find some people with cash who want to invest w you.....15 people w 1000 each could work. give them each1% of the company, and if it makes it they will be very happy. Let them decide upon the risk/reward.

I do not have experience with this particular company, but in general.....run away. Do not walk. If you have a good idea, they'll steal it. (They're telling you not to patent it, right?) If your idea isn't so hot, they will take your (up to) $15,700 or more, and won't do anything for you. As for what to do instead, unfortunately, it depends on your particular idea/product and its marketplace.