Intellectual Property financing for your small business

April 26^th was World Intellectual Property Day. The 2018 campaign celebrated “the brilliance, ingenuity, curiosity and courage of women who are driving change in our world and shaping our common future.” This is an important day that highlights just how valuable your ideas are. And they should be treated like any other part of your business’ equity.

Did you know the government of Canada currently offers financing for Intellectual Property? Get your ideas funded with help from the government and the financing experts at SGE Financial.

What is Intellectual Property (IP)?

According to the World Intellectual Property Organization, intellectual property (IP) is a creation of the mind. IP includes inventions, literary and artistic works, designs and symbols, and names and images used in business.

These are the “intangible” assets of your business that make up the heart and soul of your SME. These assets have value in the marketplace, and should be considered when evaluating the equity of your company. What’s more, they need to be protected just like any other asset.

How to protect your IP

From administrative fees to hiring an IP professional, there are different costs associated with protecting your IP. This can start with applying for a patent or registering a trademark. Your business is built on unique and creative ideas that need to be protected, but accessing these legal protections can cost you.

Did you know that the Government of Canada offers a number of financing assistance programs that can help cover the costs associated with IP rights and protections. SGE Financial can help your small business navigate the spectrum financing, indirect financing, and advisory services offered through the Business Development Bank of Canada. This can be done at any point, whether your product is already on the market or only in R&D. The government also gives you the chance to leverage your IP to expand to new markets by using your protected IP to generate fund or obtain credit. IP is an asset as valuable as inventory or property – shouldn’t you be putting yours to the best use?

SGE Financial can help you access the best loan to protect your ideas. The Business Development Bank of Canada offers financing such as: