Making Your IP Work For You: Practical Insights for Startups and Innovators
A hands‑on IP workshop for startups and innovators with clear guidance, real case studies and optional one‑to‑one sessions.
As a KQ CLICK partner, Marks & Clerk is delighted to host a practical, interactive IP session at CENTRAL TECH, Liverpool, designed specifically for the diverse and growing innovation community across the Knowledge Quarter Liverpool innovation district and within Sciontec's innovation centres.
Whether you're a startup founder shaping your first commercial strategy, a university spin‑out preparing for investment, or an established business navigating IP decisions in a shifting global economy, this session will help you understand how to make your intellectual property work for you.
The morning will focus on clear, relatable guidance, real‑world examples, and the essential “what to do — and what not to do” when it comes to IP.
The afternoon will offer optional one‑to‑one slots with Marks & Clerk specialists for tailored advice.
Why Attend?
This event is for businesses and innovators at all stages, from early‑stage founders to established companies. You’ll get:
Practical, jargon‑free explanations of key IP concepts
Guidance on how IP supports fundraising, commercialisation and scaling
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Real case studies showing what successful businesses did right — and where others went wrong
Optional one‑to‑one discussions with patent, trade mark and commercial experts
Morning Session (10:00 – 12:00) MAIN GROUP WORKSHOP
Informal, engaging talks featuring:
How to make your IP work for you
Different types of IP right and filing strategies
Getting your business “investment ready” from an IP and contract perspective
War stories and object lessons
Developing your technology – licensing in, in-house development and collaborations
Commercialisation pathways — licensing, distribution, agency, direct sales
Afternoon Session (12:30 – 16:00) oPTIONAL 1-2-1 APPOINTMENT
Optional one‑to‑one advisory sessions
Attendees will be able to sign up for short, focused discussions with our specialists to talk through their specific questions. Members of Marks & Clerk’s growth teams (including life sciences and software/AI specialists) will also be available.
Who Should Attend?
Startups and SMEs
University spin‑outs
Founders preparing to raise investment
Innovators working in software, AI, life sciences, engineering, digital and creative industries
Any business looking to better understand how to leverage and protect their ideas
No prior IP knowledge is required.
About Marks & Clerk
Marks & Clerk is a leading global intellectual property law firm supporting innovators at every stage of their commercial journey. Our experts work with businesses across software, AI, engineering, life sciences, university spin‑outs and more to help protect, commercialise and maximise the value of their ideas.
