‍ Quick recap

The meeting focused on intellectual property strategies and support for Ontario businesses, with Maria from IPON presenting on their services and eligibility criteria for clients. Mike, a patent agent, discussed IPON's role in supporting the innovation ecosystem, particularly in ag tech, while addressing concerns about IP protection effectiveness and recent jurisprudential shifts. The discussion concluded with practical guidance on IPON applications for multiple business entities, patenting strategies for early-stage companies, and upcoming industry events.

Summary

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IP Strategies for Ontario Businesses

Maria Kravchuk from Intellectual Property Ontario presented on the importance of IP for businesses, highlighting that Canadian companies with IP strategies are more likely to export, grow, and secure financing. She explained how IPON supports Ontario businesses through IP benchmarking, education, coaching, events, and funding up to 80% for eligible expenses. Maria outlined the eligibility criteria for becoming an IPON client, including being an SME with fewer than 500 employees, operating in Ontario, and belonging to one of IPON's priority sectors, which now includes agriculture and food technology. The presentation concluded with information on how to apply to become an IPON client, with applications processed within 4 weeks.

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IPON's Role in Ag Tech Innovation

Mike, a patent agent with 20 years of experience, discussed the importance of IPON in supporting the innovation ecosystem, particularly in the ag tech sector. He highlighted the organization's role in providing education and funding to help companies secure their intellectual property. Chuck raised concerns about the effectiveness of IP protection in ag tech, citing the rapid advancement of technology and the potential for easy copying. Mike explained that recent shifts in jurisprudence have improved the protection of software and other technologies, and emphasized the value of IP in attracting investors. He also noted the importance of proper management of trade secrets and other intellectual property rights.

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IPON Applications for Business Entities

The discussion focused on IPON applications and strategies for multiple business entities. Keenan and Ruben from Valley Bio Ltd sought guidance on which entity to apply under, given their farm owns another business and is the majority shareholder of a third. Mariya and Mike advised that while they are still sorting out the details, Keenan should reach out to IPON's intake team for a definitive answer. Matt shared his experience with IPON funding, explaining how it helped shift the cost-benefit analysis for filing provisional patent applications, allowing them to protect their innovations before a show in Niagara.

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Service Provider Billing Concerns

Chuck and Matt discussed concerns about service provider billing and the need for reasonable fee baselines. Mike suggested that early involvement of commercialization partners could help address potential litigation costs, and highlighted IP insurance as a resource for IPON clients to offset expensive litigation expenses.

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IP Strategies for Early-Stage Companies

The meeting focused on intellectual property (IP) strategies for early-stage companies, with David and Mike providing insights on patenting, provisional patents, and the value of IP in attracting investors and talent. They emphasized starting with a small investment to file a provisional patent, which gives a year to assess the technology's uniqueness and potential for commercialization. Mike highlighted the importance of aligning IP strategy with business strategy, focusing on elements that support revenue streams rather than protecting everything. The discussion also covered patent searching, with Mike suggesting that while initial searches can be done by companies, engaging an IP professional for final assessments is advisable. The conversation ended with updates on upcoming events, including the Canadian AgRobotics and AI Summit in March, which Joe and Chuck are organizing, inviting participants to register early and get involved as speakers, exhibitors, or sponsors.

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