Our Vision for 2025
January 2, 2025 marks five years of VPG.
Happy 5th birthday to my creation, VPG, the virtual gateway to professionals in the patent space!
As we celebrate this incredible milestone on January 2, 2025, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey that has brought us here. Five years ago, I turned a dream of work-life harmony into what has now become a thriving hub for professionals in the patent space.
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have come our way. In September 2024, I embraced the challenge of speaking at panels in Las Vegas and DC. These experiences allowed me to forge new connections and explore fresh interests alongside amazing organizations like the PTAB Bar Association Diversity Committee, Women’s Committee, ADAPT.legal, Women in AI, NAPABA, and the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA).
The heartbeat of VPG has always been our diverse and talented team. As CEO, I have faced challenges that have shaped our path, and each twist and turn has taught us invaluable lessons. This past year, we transformed VPG into a comprehensive virtual training and webinar platform, forging meaningful partnerships and offering on-demand courses. One of my proudest moments was publishing my second book, Collaborating in Competitive Ecosystems, with talented illustrator Michelle Kim and adapting those lessons into engaging on-demand courses.
As we learn and grow together and as team members develop themselves, I am filled with pride and more certain than ever that we are on the right path. We are committed to cultivating our "smallest viable audience" (SVA) while remaining dedicated to our IP professional community.
In addition, we serve as a one-stop shop for virtual paralegal services, empowering women entrepreneurs through The Wanderlust, The Paralegal Edge newsletter, and our impactful workshops.
Season 1 of the "Virtual Water Cooler Chat" podcast embarked on an unforgettable journey with 35 episodes dedicated to personal and professional growth. Season 2 delved into diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), resulting in 62 impactful episodes that foster community understanding. Season 3 focuses on “Empowering Voices” of diverse professionals, featuring over 40 enthusiastic guests eager to share their insights!
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. Your unwavering support means the world to us, and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds!
Here’s to continued growth, enriched connections, and exciting adventures in 2025!
With heartfelt appreciation,
Ashley Cheung
Principal & Founder, Virtual Patent Gateway