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Free intellectual property checks for SMEs

Published On 2 February 2007 at 17:39:54

The minister for science and innovation, Malcolm Wicks, today announced that small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) are to be offered free intellectual property audits.

The three-day audits will be provided to around 40 SMEs, many of whom have never previously considered having their intellectual property valued.

The audits are pilot schemes set up as part of the Innovation Support Strategy, which was published yesterday by the Patent Office.

It is hoped that the checks will ensure that SMEs in the UK can protect and make best use of their intellectual property.

Mr Wicks commented: "Every business uses aspects of intellectual property, the name it trades under, process it uses or the products or services it provides.

"The IP audit pilots will help up to 40 small firms in the manufacturing, service, high tech, creative and other sectors identify what intellectual property exists and offer advice to protect, use and maximise its value."

The audits are expected to take place in March.

 

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