Mathys & Squire LLP offers a package of assistance tailored to new business start-ups and SMEs.

The commercialisation of intellectual property (IP) can be challenging for a number of reasons.  As a leading firm of IP attorneys, Mathys and Squire LLP has a wealth of experience in overcoming the problems which early stage businesses can encounter.

Experience has taught us that, by identifying and supporting businesses with strong IP at an early stage and providing a structured program of mentoring and advice, we increase the chances of those clients successfully commercialising their IP.  The aim of our SME support program is to identify and nurture businesses with commercial potential and to give them the best possible head start in getting their product to the market.

Our SME support program consists of up to 12 hours of business mentoring from a consultant experienced in the commercialisation of IP.  This time is provided free of charge for a period of up to 12 months in the run up to the filing of registered IP rights in the form of patents, trade marks or registered design rights.  Any filing of registered IP rights shall be subject to our usual terms of business and fee tariff as appropriate.

Elements of our SME support program include:

• Assistance in drafting a business plan
• Pre-filing advice and guidance on patents, trade marks and registered design rights
• Development of an IP strategy
• Up-to-date information on sources of grant funding and other methods of finance
• Introductions to potential sources of equity and non-equity finance, potential subsidised R&D support partners, potential joint venture partners and potential licensee partners (where appropriate)

Clients engaged in our SME support program may also benefit from help with R&D tax credits through our partner organisation KPMG.  In the event that an application for tax rebates is made, SME support program members can take advantage of the same discounted KPMG rates as other clients of Mathys & Squire LLP.

To take advantage of our SME support program, prospective clients must pass a selection interview and agree to work exclusively with Mathys & Squire LLP in respect of all IP legal advice and prosecution during the 12 month period.  Clients must sign a formal letter of engagement prior to the program commencing.