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
Spring Budget 2024
A summary of how the Spring Budget affects Northern Ireland businesses.
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
Financial risk
Understand the main types of financial risks to your business and find ways to mitigate and reduce them
Consultation: Corporate Performance Plan for Antrim and Newtownabbey
Businesses and residents are invited to provide feedback on this draft consultation.
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.
Optimal Programme for Antrim and Newtownabbey businesses
This free business growth programme offers support through mentoring, workshops and networking.
Tax checks on taxi licences to be extended to Northern Ireland
Affected individuals will need to complete a tax check when applying to renew licences from April 2023
Innovate UK showcase event for climate tech investment
This regional event will take place in Belfast on 6 December 2023 and will focus on digital solutions for net zero.
Digital Growth Programme: mentoring, workshops and training
This programme aims to enhance digital capabilities and develop knowledge in new and existing platforms
Reval 2023 - business rates revaluation
Revaluation of all non-domestic properties in Northern Ireland will result in a new Valuation List to be used to calculate business rates from April 2023
UK Global Screen Fund: International Business Development event
Information session for Northern Ireland businesses to hear more about International Business Development funding.