Search results
How to search for trade marks
Carry out a trade mark clearance search to check the availability of a mark, or discover marks that are already in use
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
How to cut carbon emissions from business buildings
Some of the measures you can take to cut the greenhouse gas emissions from your business premises and buildings.
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
Installing efficient heating and hot water equipment
Types of energy-efficient heating and hot water equipment and how to choose the best system for your building.
Fire safety and building work
Taking into account building regulations requirements for fire safety when building, extending or materially altering your business premises.
Financial risk
Understand the main types of financial risks to your business and find ways to mitigate and reduce them
Grow your business successfully
How to identify and overcome the challenges and the pitfalls that you may encounter while growing your business
Manage the risks of exporting
Learn how you can identify and manage export risks.
Getting paid when exporting
Guidance on reducing risks associated with receiving payments from selling goods or services internationally.
How to maintain heating systems effectively
What a professional should check when maintaining heating and hot water systems and regular checks you can carry out.
Export licences and certificates
Licences, certificates and special rules for taking goods out of the UK
Risk management
Introduction to the risk management process and the steps to help you identify, manage and minimise risk in your business