Search results
Search for existing patents
How to carry out patent searches to find prior patents and ensure that you do not infringe the patent rights of another person or business
How to apply for a patent
Overview of the UK patent application process and step-by-step guidance on how to prepare patent application documents and apply to the UK Intellectual Property Office
Patent protection and enforcement
How to protect your patents from infringement and unlawful use, and your options for resolving patent disputes in and out of court
How to license a patent
How to license a patent and grant the right to another person or business to use your patent, and what benefits you can gain from it
What is a patent?
What are patents, how do they protect your inventions and how can you use patent rights to benefit your business
Can I patent my idea or invention?
You may be able to get a patent if your idea or invention meets the criteria for a patent - to qualify it must be new, inventive and industrially applicable
Advantages and disadvantages of getting a patent
Consider the benefits of patents, as well as possible difficulties patenting may cause, before taking your ideas public
Joint venture checklist
Due diligence checklist to help you consider key issues when entering a contractual joint venture agreement.
How to cut carbon emissions from business buildings
Some of the measures you can take to cut the greenhouse gas emissions from your business premises and buildings.
Checklist before you sign a sales contract
The details you need to check before and after you sign the final contract in order to complete the sale of a business.
Negotiating the sales deal - buyer's perspective
The main points you need to consider when you are negotiating to buy a business.
Spring Budget 2024
A summary of how the Spring Budget affects Northern Ireland businesses.
Rules on advertising credit
The rules governing advertisement for credit or hire facilities including providing clear, easily understood information and a representative example.
Innovation and R&D
Guidance on intellectual property, innovation and research and development, and financing business R&D in Northern Ireland
Joint venture advantages and disadvantages
Understand the pros and cons of forming a joint venture to share resources, responsibilities and risks with another business.
Structuring a board of directors
How to best structure a board of directors with responsibility for key areas of the business
Eureka Network
Information on the world's biggest public network for international cooperation in research, development and innovation
Installing efficient heating and hot water equipment
Types of energy-efficient heating and hot water equipment and how to choose the best system for your building.
Fire safety and building work
Taking into account building regulations requirements for fire safety when building, extending or materially altering your business premises.
Advisory support for creative businesses
Sources of information and advice for businesses in the Northern Ireland creative industries.