Ask us about IP Strategy
Not sure what IP Strategy is and whether you need one? Please ask us! One of our IP Strategy professionals will help you figure out what you need.
See our list of professionals: click here.
Why is IP Strategy critical to companies today?
In today’s competitive and fast-evolving market, intangible assets are what give companies their edge. This is reflected in the asset mix of modern businesses: intangible assets now make up around 90% of the total value of companies in the S&P 500. To stay secure and competitive, companies must prioritize the protection of these intangible assets—including intellectual property such as patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and goodwill.
Unlike physical assets, protecting intangible assets isn’t always straightforward. It requires navigating a complex legal landscape that touches on intellectual property, contract law, and corporate law. That’s why companies need guidance from experts who can help craft a comprehensive approach.
This is where an IP strategy becomes essential.
A well-designed IP strategy ensures that the protection of intangible assets is proactive, not reactive. It integrates IP considerations into the fabric of your business as it grows—giving you the knowledge, structure, and foresight to safeguard assets from the moment they arise. This positions your company for long-term success and resilience.
What is an IP Strategy?
An IP strategy is a structured plan to assess, manage, and protect your company’s intellectual property. It typically includes:
- A review and audit of existing IP holdings, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
- Identification of opportunities and risks related to IP.
- Evaluation of internal systems for managing IP, including how IP is created, recorded, and monitored.
- Assessment of how your company uses software and middleware assets, including open-source components, to ensure compliance with licensing terms and avoid inadvertent infringement.
- Strategies to mitigate or prevent IP liability exposure from infringing on the rights of others.
Funding Your IP Strategy
An IP strategy ensures that your company not only protects what it owns—but also operates with awareness and compliance in a landscape where innovation is key.
We understand that legal fees can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting your company or business. Fortunately, there are several government grants available to help small and medium-sized businesses based in Canada, particularly Ontario, access funding to cover a significant portion of these legal costs.
Gilbert’s can also help you assess your eligibility, prepare strong applications, and maximize the benefits of these programs enabling you to secure funding and strengthen your competitive edge.
