Startups are justifiably focused on developing the next big idea, getting that idea to market and ensuring the company has enough financial runway to make it all happen. Missteps in protecting the startup’s intellectual property, however, can be devastating when it comes time to translate the company’s growth efforts into future investment. What are 7 of the most damaging missteps a company can take when it comes to protecting its IP? Seth Northrop, a principal in the intellectual property and technology group of Robins Kaplan, discusses each mistake ranging from crowdfunding to patenting to trade secrets to IP strategy.