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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
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.
Cyber security for business
Introduction to small business cyber security, risks to your business, and tools and techniques to help you manage it.
Demonstrate good environmental compliance
Show your environmental credentials to become a more attractive business to contractors in Northern Ireland when preparing your business for tender
Manage asbestos in rented business property
Responsibilities for managing asbestos in commercial premises, and who exercise them.
Fire safety in rented business property
Key responsibilities for tenants and landlords under fire regulations for commercial property.
Electrical safety in rented business property
How responsibility for electrical safety in commercial premises is determined.
Gas safety in rented business property
Division of responsibilities between landlords and tenants for gas safety checks and maintenance.
Find contracts and tender successfully
Put your business in the best position to find and win tender competitions in Northern Ireland, Great Britain, Republic of Ireland and the EU