On October 9th, Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), the provincial agency that provides innovators and researchers with intellectual property (IP) services, announced an expansion of its eligibility criteria to extend its support to three key sectors: clean technology (cleantech), agriculture and food technology, and mining technology. This expansion builds on the agency’s existing served sectors, which include artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies, automotive, health technology, life sciences, and support technologies such as advanced manufacturing.
Through IPON, Ontario has invested $15.79 million to support the IP and commercialization efforts of 272 clients, as well as eight colleges and 12 universities. Expanding IPON’s eligibility criteria will enable more Ontario-based companies and researchers to access the critical IP support and services they need to innovate and grow.
“Expanding our eligibility to include cleantech, agriculture and food technology, and mining technology ensures that IPON is positioned to support innovation and growth in every region of the province,” says Dan Herman, CEO of IPON. “Ontario innovators have an immense opportunity to meet growing global demand for products and services in these sectors, and IPON’s support for the protection and commercialization of their IP will help ensure that we maximize the benefits for Ontario and its residents.”
Since launching in 2022, IPON has played a pivotal role in advancing innovation across Ontario. The agency currently serves 529 clients, with more being onboarded every week. To date, IPON’s funding has supported the creation of 477 patents, 240 trademarks, 29 industrial designs, 89 IP-centric agreements, 8 trade secrets, and two registered copyrights. It has also provided foundational IP education to 357 individuals, issued 354 micro-credentials, and has given more than 1,000 hours of direct IP mentorship.
Innovators and researchers in all served sectors that meet IPON’s Eligibility By-Law are encouraged to apply to IPON to access IP services and support.
Webinar: Oct. 23rd
IPON is having a webinar on October 23rd for SMEs and new partners who are interested in knowing more about how they can help them with their IP needs. Register online here.
