(74b) How emerging growth companies can effectively protect their intellectual assets

The discussion will include a general overview of intellectual property rights and why they are important for emerging growth companies (e.g., entrepreneurs, start-ups, university spin-outs) in the life sciences sector to consider early in the life of the company. The discussion will particularly focus on how to determine if a patent application is an appropriate means of protection for the emerging growth company and how to effectively pursue a patent application. The discussion will include steps an emerging growth company can perform on their own without having to involve an outside consultant (e.g., attorney). The discussion will include common pitfalls when obtaining intellectual property rights and creative ways emerging growth companies can enforce their rights to deter competition or generate revenue (e.g., licensing).