IP Updates

The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application is a globally recognized patent filing system that enables applicants to seek protection for their inventions in numerous countries. It enables the applicants to file a single patent application and have it assessed by several patent offices worldwide. Despite the manifold advantages of filing a PCT application, it is…

Conducting a prior art search is an imperative measure that must be performed prior to initiating the filing of a patent application. The fundamental objective is to discern any preexisting information or technology that may impact the patentability of the invention. It is crucial to note that a vast majority of products or innovations lack…

A well-formed IP strategy provides a structured intellectual property harvesting and monetization plan that is aligned with your business goals and recommends the right IP asset (patents, trademarks, copyright, trade secrets, or industrial designs) based on the nature of your business. Steps in IP management strategy: IP Audit – Identifying intangible assets and intellectual property of the…

What is CanExport SME? The CanExport SMEs Program provides direct financial assistance up to $50,000 to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) registered in Canada seeking new export opportunities, particularly in high-growth emerging markets and sectors. The CanExport SMEs can support you in preparing for and establishing a presence of your business in international markets by funding various…

What is an IP Assist Program? If you are the owner of a small or medium-sized Canadian business and need assistance with intellectual property issues, you may be eligible for financial support from the Government of Canada. The National Research Council (NRC) has introduced the IP Assist program through their Innovation Research Assistance Program (IRAP)…

If you are thinking about launching a new product or service in  an  existing  market  or  entering  a  new  market,  undertaking rigorous due-diligence in order to reduce business risks is imperative. This will ensure  protection  of  your company’s IP  rights  and at the same time prevent  third-party  rights’ infringement. You should perform due diligence including: …

IP culture must be a part and parcel of any innovative company’s vision and mission, but, a big question for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is how to establish an IP culture within their organization. Startups and SMEs can create an IP culture by forming an IP policy for  the organization. The policy will…

Often, entrepreneurs and business owners may think which is the best IP Asset for their intellectual asset (product/service) – should they file a Trademark or a patent or they should keep their invention as a Trade secret.  In fact, there can be multiple IP assets  that  could  be  used  for  developing  an  IP  portfolio  around …

Managing the use of Open-source software (OSS) for any software development company might be a challenging task. However, software development companies can set boundaries on OSS usage through a comprehensive IP Policy. The IP policy for an organization can define guidelines and compliance procedures for inclusion of OSS in any deliverable. The policy and procedures…