Search results
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
Rules on advertising credit
The rules governing advertisement for credit or hire facilities including providing clear, easily understood information and a representative example.
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
Consumer credit rules for businesses that hire out or lease goods
An introduction to how consumer credit rules affect businesses that hire or lease goods including providing a written hire agreement stating the consumer’s rights.
Does my business need a consumer credit licence?
If you sell on credit, lend money, issue credit cards, collect debts or give debt advice, you may need a consumer credit licence to operate.
How to apply for a consumer credit licence
You can apply for consumer credit licensing from the Financial Conduct Authority who will assess your fitness on factors such as competence and past offences.
Funding for design projects
Find funding support for your design project to help improve processes, products or services
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
Benefits of health and safety management systems
Management systems help control risk, reduce costs and improve your reputation, other benefits include increased morale and possible lower insurance premiums.
Using a sales agent
Advice on using an outside agency to sell your products and services, and the legal issues this can raise.
Create your sales plan
How a sales plan will help you to sell your product or service
Online selling
How your business can successfully use the internet to sell its products or service including creating an online shop and marketing online
Drive business growth through efficiency
Video tutorial on growing your business through increased efficiency