Patents

A patent (in Dutch: ‘octrooi’) is an exclusive right to an invention that means that you can prevent someone from commercially exploiting your invention. A patent is a useful tool that will help you stop other parties hitching a free ride on the success of your invention. Patents also give you a stronger hand in your dealings with investors and future partners. However, a patent does require a substantial financial investment.

All patents contain information on the applicant and inventor, along with a description of the invention. All patents all over the world are used to describe innovative products and processes. This allows users to find answers to such questions as:

• Does my invention already exist?
• What products and techniques are there already?
• Who are my potential customers and suppliers?
• What are my competitors up to?
• Who are my potential (commercial) partners and collaborators?
• How do I decide on a strategic innovation policy?

NB. Patents are regulated by Kingdom Law.