Intellectual Property For SMEs And Start-Ups: Adding Value And Encouraging Growth

The recent economic uncertainty has presented small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and start-ups with a difficult and competitive environment in which to operate but the ongoing need to pay careful attention to intellectual property (IP) remains important for such businesses to grow and remain successful.

Many SMEs and start-ups regularly develop new and innovative products, creative designs and brands. It is important that those companies recognise the potential to obtain intellectual property (IP) protection in their work. IP, particularly registered IP such as patents, trade marks and designs, are an asset associated with a tangible value that can help drive business growth and improve company image and standing in a competitive marketplace. We therefore encourage and assist SMEs and start-ups to take steps to ensure that IP is properly understood and protected to establish or maintain a market presence and safeguard a competitive advantage.