In line with the UK’s bid to be a global leader in innovation and to support a post-pandemic recovery, the UKIPO has launched a new grant called "IP Access" to help SMEs protect and commercialise their IP.
The grant is available to SMEs and innovative businesses to support the investment required into their IP, and can be used to cover a variety of service costs related to:
- The management of IP assets
- Commercialisation of IP
- Licensing and franchising agreements
- IP insurance
- IP valuation
- Tax relief advice
- Professional fees for IP services in the UK and abroad
Notably, there are some limitations on the scope of support provided and the grant funds cannot be used for the official fees for filing trade marks, registered designs or patent applications.
IP Access is an extension of the UKIPO’s successful “IP Audits Plus” program, allowing companies to gain extra funding to implement recommendations given within the IP Audit program’s report.
Commenting on the development, Esmé Swindells, patent attorney at Potter Clarkson, says:
This new grant represents a valuable addition to the UKIPO’s existing provisions in the space and will be roundly welcomed by SMEs looking to take a proactive approach to managing their intellectual property."Any company that has completed a part-funded IP Audit between April 2020 and March 2022 with an IP audit plus partner is eligible to apply so there is still time to enrol on the IP Audit Plus program if your company has yet to do so and then apply for the IP Access grant thereafter."
Applications for IP Access are now open and will remain so until 12pm on the 31st March 2022. All applications must be submitted by a nominated partner organisation, which include Innovate UK Edge, Scottish Enterprise and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise, or the Welsh Government.
If your company needs assistance during the application process, please do get in touch with one of our SME specialist team at info@potterclarkson.com.
