Start-up Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) Scheme: Initially launched in 2016, the SIPP scheme has been extended until 2026 due to its successful execution and the significant increase in applications filed by start-ups with the Intellectual Property offices. This scheme allows applicants to file for Patents, Designs, and Trademarks through registered facilitators at the appropriate Intellectual Property offices in India. Applicants are only required to pay the statutory fees, such as government and filing fees.

Purpose of the Scheme: The primary objective of launching the SIPP scheme is to assist start-ups in promoting and protecting their Intellectual Property. It aims to raise awareness about how Intellectual Property can be transformed into a valuable asset, which can later be utilized to boost revenues for businesses. As start-ups are often new entrants in an already competitive market, they may face challenges like limited capital. To promote Intellectual Property, the Government launched the SIPP scheme in 2016, ensuring that start-ups can build their IP portfolio regardless of their size. The scheme’s success has led to its extension until 2026.

Growth in IP Applications: Patents applications filed by start-ups under this scheme saw a significant increase from 179 applications in 2017 to over 1,500 in 2022. For trademarks, the number of applications surged from 4 in 2017 to more than 8,000 in 2022.

Benefits of Protecting IP for Start-ups: As new businesses entering a competitive market, start-ups must build their Intellectual Property portfolio to gain goodwill and recognition. Through IP, businesses can license, sell, or commercialize their assets to generate revenue. This can lead to an improved market share and stronger brand recognition. Innovation is a core factor that start-ups bring to the market, and the SIPP scheme ensures that Intellectual Property becomes a crucial asset for these businesses, making it a priority for start-ups.

Additional Benefits of the Scheme: Protecting IP and building an IP portfolio through the SIPP scheme can help start-ups generate funds, increase export opportunities, and turn ideas into profit-generating assets.

Eligibility Criteria for the SIPP Scheme: The SIPP scheme is available to start-ups that have been in business for no longer than 7 years, with an annual turnover not exceeding Rs. 25 Crores in a financial year. Eligible start-ups should be focused on the development, deployment, and innovation of new processes, services, or products where Intellectual Property is central. Additionally, the business must have a start-up certificate issued by the Government of India.

How We Can Assist: AKSH IP ASSOCIATES, a boutique IP firm specializing in Intellectual Property, has a team of Patent Agents and Trademark Attorneys who are registered facilitators with the SIPP Scheme. With nearly a decade of experience in handling IP cases, our team can assist you from the initial stages through to the disposal of your application. We have provided legal advice to numerous clients, supported filing applications, drafted and responded to Examination Reports raised by the Tribunal, and attended hearings before the Controller/Registrar. Strategically planned Intellectual Property can help any business achieve global recognition, and with the SIPP scheme, start-ups in India have an excellent opportunity to grow their business effectively.