Search results
Protecting registered trade marks
How to protect you registered trade marks against misuse, counterfeiting and other infringement
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Cyber security for business
Introduction to small business cyber security, risks to your business, and tools and techniques to help you manage it.