A functional prototype
We need to experience the play pattern—not simply review a rendering, sketch or written idea.
For professional inventors + product creators
Built it? Let’s play.
We help standout, proprietary toy and game concepts find the right home with leading companies around the world.
The quick fit check
Three things we need.
Nextoy is highly selective and works primarily with professional inventors and organizations. Before getting in touch, make sure your concept clears these fundamentals.
A proprietary edge
Strong concepts usually contain a novel function, mechanism or other defensible feature.
Professional preparation
Research the category, understand comparable products and be ready for a thoughtful development process.
Please don’t send confidential details or invention materials yet. The first form is only a non-confidential category inquiry.
What we review
Original ideas with a reason to exist.
We look for concepts with a clear, compelling play pattern and a meaningful point of difference—not novelty for novelty’s sake.
Potentially a fit
- Toys and games with functioning prototypes
- Mechanical or technology-driven play
- Concepts with utility-patent potential or proprietary features
- Products in publishing, gifts, stationery and direct response
Usually not a fit
- Ideas that exist only as renderings or descriptions
- Traditional board games without a mechanical or technological component
- Variations on familiar board games
- Characters, dolls or action figures without unique proprietary features
What happens next
A clear path. No false promises.
Tell us the category and stage without revealing the invention itself.
We assess whether it aligns with categories and partners we are pursuing.
If there may be a fit, we contact you with the appropriate next steps.
If both sides agree, we establish a working relationship and pursue placement.
Good ideas deserve honesty, too.
Licensing is not quick or guaranteed. Finding the right home can take months or years, many concepts are never placed, and a successfully placed product commonly takes another one to two years to reach market.
That candor matters. The right inventor relationship is built on realistic expectations, careful development and persistence.
Nextoy is compensated only when a placement succeeds, through an agreed share of royalties, advances and guarantees.
Inventor FAQ
Before you reach out.
These are the questions that help protect your time, your concept and the quality of the conversation.
Recommended reading
Do I need a working prototype?
Yes. Nextoy reviews concepts that can be demonstrated through a functioning prototype. A rendering, sketch or written concept alone is not enough.
Does my concept need a patent?
Not necessarily, but the concept should be proprietary in a meaningful way. Utility-patent eligibility or another defensible functional feature is strongly preferred. For patent information, visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
What research should I do first?
Look beyond current store shelves. Research similar products, discontinued items and international products so you understand what has existed and how your concept is genuinely different.
What should I reveal in the inquiry form?
Only a name and non-confidential, general description of the category—such as “preschool music toy” or “mechanized board game.” Do not explain how your invention works or send concept materials before Nextoy authorizes the next step.
What if I already have a patent?
Include the patent number in the inquiry form. Nextoy will review the general information and contact you if the concept may fit current interests.
Does Nextoy work outside toys and games?
Yes. Nextoy has also placed products in publishing, gifts, stationery and direct response.
Ready when you are
Start with the big picture.
Share only a short, non-confidential category description. If the opportunity looks relevant, Nextoy will contact you about the appropriate next step.
Do not disclose the invention itself in this form
The inquiry form is temporarily unavailable. Please send only a general, non-confidential introduction to info@nextoy.com.