Inventing the Next Big Thing: Why Patents Matter
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Workshop Overview
Have you come up with the “next big thing”? Whether you are creating cutting-edge technology or improving a well-known product or process, understanding patents is essential. Patents can enhance credibility, increase investor confidence, help keep competitors at bay, and create opportunities to profit from your creativity. Don’t let someone beat you to it! Learn what can be patented, how the patent process works, and how to prevent others from making, using, or selling your inventions—turning your innovations into valuable business assets.
A special note: if you attend this session and wish to discuss details of an invention you are developing, please do not disclose any specifics during the open session—you’ll learn why during the seminar!
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Define what patents are and what they protect
- Distinguish patents from other forms of intellectual property
- Identify the criteria required for patentability
- Understand the time and costs to obtain and maintain a patent in Canada
- Evaluate the suitability of patent protection vs alternatives
- Identify common risks and mistakes when protecting innovations
- Learn when an IP professional is required
- Establish next steps for developing an intellectual property strategy
About The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is a special operating agency of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. The agency delivers intellectual property (IP) services in Canada and educates Canadians on how to use IP more effectively.