Workshop Recap: Protecting Innovations (Not Just for Export)

On October 16, 2024, the Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic hosted a workshop focused on protecting innovations, especially in the context of international business. The event took place in Banská Bystrica and featured a panel discussion, including notable contributions from Michal Borza, Vice-Chairman and COO of RVmagnetics. The workshop was organized in collaboration with the Intellectual Property Academy, the EU Intellectual Property Office, and SARIO (Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency).

Enhancing Innovation Awareness Among Slovak Entrepreneurs

This event was part of an ongoing series aimed at raising awareness among Slovak entrepreneurs about the importance of protecting their innovations. It also served as a platform for networking, allowing participants to establish valuable connections with industry experts and fellow business leaders. The main focus was on how to internationalize businesses while ensuring robust intellectual property (IP) protection.

Key Topics Discussed

The workshop covered a variety of relevant topics, including:

• When to Protect a Company's Inte­llectual Property and When to Choose Alternative Strategies: Speakers provided guidance on how businesses can decide whether formal IP protection is the right choice or if other strategies may be more effective.
• Strategies for Protecting IP and Branding During Export: Special attention was given to exporting companies, emphasizing how to safeguard their innovations and brand reputation in global markets.
• Financing IP Protection: Attendees learned about different funding options available to support the IP protection process, making it accessible even for smaller companies.
• Practical Tips for Building an Effective IP Strategy: A significant portion of the event offered hands-on advice and practical strategies tailored to entrepreneurs looking to secure their company's inno­vative assets.

Insights from the Panel Discussion

One of the highlights of the event was an engaging panel discussion with representatives from various companies who have effectively utilized IP protection to safeguard their businesses. Michal Borza from RVmagnetics was joined by Martin Šurka of ESSEL and Matej Novotný from Balteus. Together, they tackled several pertinent topics:

• The Importance of IP Protection: Panelists shared their insights on why safeguarding intellectual property is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• Benefits of Patents for SMEs: The discussion covered the main advantages of patenting, including increased market credibility, investment attraction, and long-term security for business innovations.
• Decision-Making Process: Panelists revealed the motivations behind their decision to seek patents and how these decisions align with broader business strategies.
• Cooperation with the Patent Office: There was also a dialogue about opportunities for further collaboration with the Slovak Industrial Property Office to streamline and support the patenting process.

Networking and Future Collaborations

Beyond the formal presentations and panel discussion, the workshop provided an opportunity for entrepreneurs to network with IP experts, representatives from the Industrial Property Office, and other business owners. This networking session aimed to foster collaboration and exchange practical experiences, reinforcing the importance of a community-driven approach to innovation protection.

This workshop exemplifies a growing movement in Slovakia towards better safeguarding intellectual property in the face of increasing international business activity. For entrepreneurs, these insights are critical in ensuring that their innovations remain protected, allowing them to compete confidently on the global stage.