UKIPO Audits And IP Access Are Back!

The IP Advance scheme, rolled out by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), is here to help SMEs get a handle on their intellectual property (IP).The scheme offers two tiers of financial support, IP Audit funding and IP Access funding. The main aim of the scheme is to support SMEs in making the most of their IP assets to help drive business growth.

The first tier, IP Audit funding, subsidises the cost of a detailed IP Audit conducted by a qualified IP professional. This IP Audit generally provides a comprehensive review of the funded business' IP assets, identifying both opportunities as well as risks, and includes recommendations for executing a robust IP strategy. In particular, businesses will receive a bespoke report with actionable and prioritised recommendations, cost projections, and timelines for implementation. The IP Audit is partially funded by the UKIPO up to £2,250, with the businesses required to contribute £750. An essential component of this