Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON) has launched a free online platform intending to improve the IP literacy of users, regardless of their experience level, and empower the province’s businesses to safeguard and strengthen their innovations and attain their business objectives.
According to IPON’s news release, its new IP toolkit targets Ontario-based entrepreneurs, researchers, innovators, and the networks guiding them, such as regional innovation centres and business accelerators and incubators.
IPON said the practical platform seeks to help these users understand and use IP and take immediate steps to deal with IP-related matters.
IPON added that the IP toolkit includes hands-on, on-demand, comprehensive, straightforward, and accessible IP resources, such as:
- step-by-step guides
- education and training materials
- FAQs
- a glossary of common IP terms
- customizable tools and templates
IPON noted that the platform covers IP-related topics, including:
- key IP considerations at each business development stage
- what an IP strategy is, why businesses need one, and how to begin one
- different IP rights and their uses
- how to budget for IP and access IP funding in Ontario
- why confidentiality is important
- information on non-disclosure agreements
- who owns IP and when the owner needs to transfer it
- considerations for commercializing IP for higher revenues and business valuations
- what to do if someone challenges or infringes the IP
“IP doesn’t need to be complicated,” said Roula Thomas, IPON’s vice president of intellectual property. “A clear understanding of intellectual property, and how IP can be used to support business growth and higher valuations can be a game-changer for innovators.”
Development
In its news release, IPON shared that it developed the IP toolkit with its partners, including the MaRS Discovery District, North America’s biggest urban innovation hub, with input from organizations directly engaging with entrepreneurs.
“Now more than ever, it is vital that our province bolsters the commercialization of homegrown innovation so Ontario benefits first and foremost from research taking place in our own backyard,” said Nolan Quinn – Ontario’s minister of colleges, universities, research excellence, and security – in the news release.
“With IPON’s new IP Toolkit, Ontario is expanding access to intellectual property resources so that local businesses and researchers have the tools they need to accelerate growth, protect innovations, and drive discovery across our key sectors,” Quinn added.
“IPON’s IP Toolkit is designed to help more Ontario companies identify, protect, and strategically leverage their intangible assets,” Thomas said in IPON’s news release. “By making IP education tools free and accessible, we’re investing in Ontario’s economic development and long-term prosperity.”
IPON noted that its clients can access advanced tools like templates and tailored IP support.