Most founders think patents are about protection. Investors think about momentum and moats. The sweet spot is a portfolio that clearly supports the business story: core tech protected, fast followers boxed out, and room to scale. One strong, relevant patent beats ten random filings every time. If your patents don’t map to your market position and roadmap, they feel like trophies, not assets.

Practical checklist for your next filing

• Tie each claim theme to a specific product, milestone, or revenue path.
• Capture improvements that block the obvious copycat routes and fast-follow features.
• Write for comprehension as well as examination so non-lawyers (and investors) can see the value.
• Show portfolio cohesion—how assets form a moat together, not just a pile of paperwork.

On a personal note, my favorite moment in pitch prep is when a founder realizes their IP isn’t the appendix. It’s the slide that makes investors salivate.