The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a federal agency under the Department of Commerce, located in Alexandria, Virginia. It is responsible for granting U.S. patents and registering trademarks, serving as the national authority for intellectual property in the United States. The agency's mission is to drive innovation and enhance global competitiveness, supporting the entrepreneurial spirit and contributing to the national economy. The USPTO offers core services including patent issuance, trademark registration, and dispute resolution. It examines patent applications and grants patents to inventors, while also processing trademark applications and maintaining comprehensive databases of issued patents and registered trademarks. The agency collaborates internationally with other patent offices and advises government leadership on intellectual property policy. Additionally, the USPTO provides resources and support to applicants, including education and training programs, to promote respect for intellectual property. It operates as a fully fee-funded agency, relying on fees from applicants for its funding.