Support for intellectual property

For innovative Canadian businesses, protecting and leveraging intellectual property can be just as important as developing the technology itself. As products evolve and markets become more competitive, having a clear approach to patents, trademarks, and other IP assets can make the difference between long-term growth and missed opportunities. The Support for Intellectual Property initiative, delivered through the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program, is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses turn their innovations into valuable, defensible business assets.

Through the IP Assist offering within NRC IRAP, businesses can access hands-on guidance tailored to where they are in their IP journey. Support ranges from building basic awareness of IP best practices, to working with experts to shape an IP strategy aligned with commercial goals, and ultimately to carrying out priority IP actions. For companies ready to move from planning to execution, non-repayable funding support may be available to help cover costs related to implementing that strategy, such as securing protection or addressing competitive IP considerations.

Available to qualifying businesses across Canada and open to a wide range of industries, this program is particularly relevant for companies developing new technologies or products with strong commercialization potential. Exploring the full details can help determine how IP Assist fits into your broader growth and innovation plans.