A couple of years ago, I came up with an invention that I thought was QVC-worthy. It was a bedding item that I’ll bet every married couple (or partnered couple, for that matter) has dealt with–the fight over blankets on the bed. I won’t go  into too much detail, because I’d still like to make this invention one day (I just need to learn to sew). However, I will go into an opportunity I just learned about that may benefit any other female inventors out there.

I got this press release from Bed, Bath and Beyond that was a call for products that American women have invented and which could possibly be sold in a Bed, Bath and Beyond store. (Mine could. Damn. Where’s the sewing machine?)

I know that we have a lot of creative types that read this blog. So I figured some of you might benefit from knowing about this contest. I’ve pasted the details of the contest below.

Note: The deadline is April 30, 2009.

Do you have a great product idea for the home?  If so, your invention could be sold in Bed Bath & Beyond! This year marks the 200th anniversary of the first patent awarded to a woman. In celebration, Bed Bath & Beyond has partnered with Edison Nation to find problem-solving product ideas for the home invented by women across the nation. The most innovative products could wind up on Bed Bath & Beyond shelves!

The American Women of Invention search, which officially commenced February 23, 2009, invites women nationwide to submit their innovative products or product ideas. Bed Bath & Beyond is looking for products that are great solutions to help solve everyday problems found throughout the home.  These could include products for any room in the home - products that make life easier, more comfortable, convenient, cleaner or better organized.

“We are very excited to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first patent awarded to a woman by searching for the next great generation of American Women of Invention,” commented Arthur Stark, President of Bed Bath & Beyond. “Throughout history women have been responsible for some of the world’s greatest innovations from the life raft to the windshield wiper. We invite women all across our country to come forward and submit their problem-solving solutions.”

Edison Nation is a full-service consumer products development company dedicated to connecting innovators with commercial opportunities. Edison Nation is coordinating the American Women of Invention search. There is no limit to the number of inventions you can submit to the search. (Edison Nation will charge a minimal fee for each invention you submit to cover its product screening process.) Edison Nation will screen inventions submitted to the search and then present the best to Bed Bath & Beyond. Bed Bath & Beyond will evaluate the ideas presented with an eye towards turning the inventions into viable products to be sold in its stores. If your idea is selected, you’ll be paid a $2,500 advance and other compensation based on sales.

To learn how to submit your invention for the American Women of Invention search, visit www.bedbathandbeyond.com. Inventions can be submitted until April 30, 2009.