Partner Article

Intellectual Property seminars for SMEs launched

A new series of free business support events for SMEs has been launched today in Liverpool by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and Companies House.

‘Get It Right - First Time’ is aimed at business owners looking for help with protecting their Intellectual Property and understanding the responsibilities as a first-time director.

The joint venture between the IPO and Companies House will be hosted by experts from both offices.

IPO will present a variety of seminars that will run through the basics of IP: what it is, why it is important, how to protect it and then how to exploit it commercially.

The seminars will also support business owners and managers, including information about the incorporation process and how to use the many tools and resources provided by Companies House.

Baroness Wilcox, Minister for Intellectual Property said: “These events are enormously helpful for directors who have little or no experience of protecting their IP, or are new to being directors.

“Having run my own business, I know how starting up your own company can be a daunting experience and I am delighted that we can offer directors free support and expert guidance on two key areas of their business.

“I hope that many directors will sign up for these events and use the experience to grow their companies.”

The series coincides with the publication of ’From ideas to growth: Helping SMEs get value from their intellectual property,“ an IPO paper.

The paper sets out IPO plans for improving access to the knowledge and support that will help firms maximise the value of their intellectual property assets, and develop strategies to manage them effectively.

SMEs, business advisers and representative bodies are invited to talk to the IPO, to discuss these plans further.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .