Presentation to ERC State of Small Business Britain Conference 2017 by Pippa Hall.

1. “Unlocking SME innovation and
growth potential through IP”
Pippa Hall – Director of Innovation

2. The role of IP in translating knowledge from research into
commercial opportunities
• Research requires and results in IP.
• Research doesn't happen in isolation.
• IP transactions underpin collaborations and partnerships.

3. The paradox of IP in modern SMEs –
value of IP v. lack of understanding
• Investment in knowledge assets outweighs that in physical ones.
• IP rights encourage investment in research and innovation.
• Too many SMEs miss opportunities to fully realise the potential of their IP.

4. What is the IPO doing to support SMEs?
Our activities focus on:
1. Raising wider awareness of the vital importance of IP
2. Improving the IP capability of business advisors and intermediaries;
3. Integrating IP as an essential element of an overall business strategy.

5. What is the IPO doing to support SMEs?
1. Raising wider awareness
Key objectives of our business centred communications are that businesses can:
• Understand IP and its relevance to them;
• Make the right decisions regarding IP;
• Maximise revenue and growth from IP;
• Understand how to resolve disputes around IP

6. What is the IPO doing to support SMEs?
2. Improving IP capability
We utilise existing partner business support networks to reach business. We
provide training to their staff through:
• workshops
• accessible digital resources - IP Equip and
• an in depth IP Master Class – online and face to face

7. What is the IPO doing to support SMEs?
3. Business planning incorporating an IP strategy
• IP Audits Plus
• Need driven by partners – legacy
• IPO Presence in the Right Place

8. Leveraging IP for SME success
• Business need to consider the whole IP journey
• Maximising IP value
• Effective dispute resolution options to build confidence

9. Unlocking SME innovation and
growth potential through IP
• Knowledge based economy
• Partnership
• Place