Why Startups Need to File Patent at An Early Stage

By: Baishali Mukherjee

Patents play a major role in getting funds for startups, especially the tech ventures. Venture capitalists evidently favour tech startups with patent-pending innovation. Patents increase the prospect and quality of merger, purchase or sale of a corporation or an initial public offering. This incentivizes investors to fund start-ups opting for patents. Moreover, patent portfolios are used as defensive strategies to discourage patent infringement claims.

While Applying for a Patent, Mull Over the Hazards

When decidingon applying for a patent, take a look at your invention and mull over the risks of not patenting it against the costs of doing so. The best approach is to appraise alternatives for IP protection before publicly disclosing the idea (e.g., pitch competitions, crowdfunding campaigns, launches, trade shows, etc.). Find a startup patent lawyer who understands your state of affairs and is ready to assist you in developing a patent strategy that takes care of your funding and acquisition goals.

According to VinayShraff, Advocate, Supreme Court, High Court,Tribunals, it is a chicken-and-egg quandary for startups that are cash-strapped. “While they require capital to invest in protecting the IP, the investment can secure them with more funding,” informed Shraff.

Read more >> https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/306087