Search results
How to search for trade marks
Carry out a trade mark clearance search to check the availability of a mark, or discover marks that are already in use
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
Innovation and R&D
Guidance on intellectual property, innovation and research and development, and financing business R&D in Northern Ireland
Eureka Network
Information on the world's biggest public network for international cooperation in research, development and innovation
Advisory support for creative businesses
Sources of information and advice for businesses in the Northern Ireland creative industries.
Challenges and opportunities in Northern Ireland creative sector
Learn about the opportunities for creative businesses in Northern Ireland, and the challenges they may encounter.
Cyber security for business
Introduction to small business cyber security, risks to your business, and tools and techniques to help you manage it.
Funding for design projects
Find funding support for your design project to help improve processes, products or services
Protect your business from ransomware
Understand what ransomware is, how it works, what impact it may have on your business and how you can prevent it.
Use innovation in your business
Guidance on using innovation in manufacturing and business operations, and the benefits of using artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0 technologies and open data in business
Impact of cyber attack on your business
Understand the impact of cyber attacks on businesses and their finances, reputation and consumer confidence.
Creative businesses and employment in Northern Ireland
Key statistics on creative industries employment, number of businesses and economic impact in Northern Ireland.
Creative sector in Northern Ireland
Introduction to the creative sector in Northern Ireland - its sub-sectors, growth and key organisations.
Drive business growth through efficiency
Video tutorial on growing your business through increased efficiency