This meeting featured Stephen Key interviewing Jared Wade (SVP of Design Innovation at Hasbro) and Leo Taylor (board game designer) on Eventbrite TV, focused on how to submit ideas to Hasbro using their Spark platform.
Key topics included the global expansion of Hasbro's Spark portal, practical advice for inventors, submission and evaluation processes, relationship development, and intellectual property protection.
Leo shared his journey from initial submission to success with Hasbro, providing insights for aspiring game and toy inventors.
Attendees: Stephen Key, Jared Wade, Leo Taylor.
Action Items
Hasbro – Ongoing: Continue expanding Spark portal roll-out to additional countries beyond current phase.
Hasbro (Jared & Inventor Relations Team) – Ongoing: Maintain documentation and transparent communication with inventors during submissions and evaluations.
Inventors – Ongoing: Prepare concise (typically 60-second) videos and supporting materials for submissions; consider early prototyping and protect IP where appropriate.
Leo Taylor – As needed: Respond promptly to Hasbro's requests for additional materials, prototypes, or collaboration opportunities.
Hasbro Spark Portal Overview & Submission Process
Hasbro's Spark portal (spark.hasbro.com) enables inventors worldwide to easily submit ideas directly to Hasbro.
The portal uses an initial automated algorithm to sort and filter ideas, ensuring submissions are relevant and complete before review by the inventor relations team.
Currently launched in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, with plans to expand globally into markets such as Germany, Israel, and Brazil.
Inventors are encouraged to submit clear, concise videos (~60 seconds) showing the play experience and fun; sell sheets and drawings are also accepted.
Reviewing eligibility for submission includes understanding Hasbro’s active brands and focusing on revolutionary rather than incremental innovation.
Evaluation Process & Relationship Building
After submission, ideas are reviewed by category specialists (e.g., Tanya for games). Initial responses may be by phone or email, with the process typically taking about two months.
Hasbro places high value on relationship-building and open two-way communication with inventors, mentoring new talent and maintaining transparency.
Inventors may be asked for additional materials, full gameplay explanations, or prototypes as part of the evaluation.
Willingness to collaborate and adapt ideas increases chances of success; Hasbro may redirect ideas to better-fitting brands or opportunities.
Intellectual Property and Protection
Documentation through the portal is a critical step for both Hasbro and inventors to track submissions.
While having a provisional patent, patent, or copyright can add value, it is not required for submission; Hasbro can support the IP process post-submission if an idea is pursued.
Transparency and thorough records help mitigate disputes about idea origin or overlap.
Inventor Experience and Best Practices
Leo Taylor’s experience highlighted the importance of investing in a strong submission video and being prepared with prototypes and supporting materials.
Successful inventors are encouraged to treat pitching as a skill, receive feedback, and continue refining their work.
Persistence, relationship-building, and openness to collaboration are key elements for long-term success in the toy and game industry.
Decisions
Continue and accelerate Spark portal global expansion — To attract the best ideas worldwide and streamline submissions.
Emphasize relationship building with inventors — Strengthens Hasbro’s innovation pipeline and fosters long-term partnerships.
No patent requirement for submissions — Lowers the barrier for inventors while still supporting IP protection as needed.
Open Questions / Follow-Ups
Timeline for completing global expansion of the Spark portal to targeted markets beyond current phase.
Are additional categories or product lines planned for active solicitation via the portal in the near future?