Nike is a highly reputable footwear company created by Bill Bowerman in 1972 and based in Beaverton, Oregon. Nike produces a variety of athletic equipment from running shoes to boxing gloves. The company operates from more than 160 countries. Nike's research and development team is constantly working to advance athletic technology. If you feel that you have a new concept or inventive approach to offer the company, you have several ways that you can present it to the company.

Things You Will Need

  • Invention or idea portfolio (samples, photos or diagrams)

  • Digital portfolio (website or slide presentation)

  • Nike contact information

Assemble a physical portfolio centered around your invention or idea. This includes samples of your invention (for example, a new type of insole made from gel and memory foam), detailed high-resolution photographs and any associated paperwork (diagrams, stitching patterns, industrial procedures).

Build a digital portfolio to represent your concept. Once you have assembled your physical portfolio, craft a small website or slide presentation that summarizes your invention. Include photographs and other important visuals. Also include a concise write-up detailing the function and capabilities of your idea.

Contact the Nike World Headquarters and have an employee direct your call to the Human Resources department. Once connected, explain in a professional manner that you have a unique design concept to introduce. You may be asked to visit the Oregon headquarters for a consultation or to provide an example of your idea via postal or electronic mail. The number is 1-503-671-6453 and you can call from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday (with the exception of recognized holidays).

Visit the Nike World Headquarters at One Bowerman Drive, Beaverton, OR 97005. Bring along your physical portfolio and wear your most professional attire. If you have scheduled a consultation on the phone, explain this to the front desk. If you do not have a scheduled appointment, ask to be referred to the Human Resources department.

Conduct yourself professionally. Whether you meet with a Nike representative over the phone or in person, present yourself as a knowledgable, competent and trustworthy individual. Your professional demeanor will reflect well on the invention or idea you hope to present.

Tip

Don't get discouraged if Nike isn't receptive to your invention or idea. Nike is a very large corporation with many inventive employees, so you'll have your work cut out for you when pitching your concept. Seek out smaller companies that may be interested in your idea.

Show dedication, but don't be overly persistent. Nike representatives will not look fondly upon a barrage of phone calls, e-mails or visits from the same inventor.

Register with an invention submission agency. These agencies act as intermediaries between inventors and large corporations who may be looking for new ideas. They can usually handle and share your portfolio in a more effective fashion and increase the chances of eventual marketing.