It's never too early to consider your intellectual property (IP). Every business will own or use IP. Your IP can include your web site, business name or logo. IP assets can also include innovative technology, know how, designs and secret recipes.
The IPO’s IP for Business tools show businesses and business advisors how to manage and benefit from IP.
They help you:
- understand how intellectual property (IP) works
- find out what you can protect using patents, copyright, trade marks and designs
- understand how to manage and use IP
- consider your IP within your business planning
- use your IP to protect your investments and products
The IP Health Check will help you identify and understand the IP assets you own in your business.
Businesses and business advisors can learn more about intellectual property rights with the IP Equip e-learning tool. Four simple modules cover the basics of copyright, designs, trade marks and patents.
Does your SME work with other businesses and people?
Use the IPO’s non-disclosure agreement template, the B2B toolkit provides advice and guidance to help you collaborate with other businesses.
IP can play an important role in equity finance. Investors will want to understand how a business has protected its IP. IP for Investment will help you identify and assess your IP assets in the context of your business strategy.
If you want to trade with other countries, the IPO attaché network can support you.
Is your business involved in university to business research collaboration?
The Lambert toolkit features a set of model agreements and helpful guide.
For further information please visit GOV.UK.