Michael O'Connor discusses the importance of intellectual property for companies. He notes that intangible assets now make up 80% of the value of companies in the S&P 500, compared to just 17% in 1975. The presentation covers patents, trademarks, filing strategies, and recent updates in IP law. O'Connor emphasizes that every company has intellectual property rights that have significant value, and protection and exploitation of those rights are crucial.

1. Michael O’Connor Partner, Cruickshank Intellectual Property Attorneys Cleantech Ireland Meeting 10 th September 2009 Cleantech Intellectual Property

2. Introduction 1975 intangible asset value of companies in S&P 500 Index ® approximately 17% 2005 intangible asset value of companies in S&P 500 Index ® approximately 80% Intellectual Property (IP) can no longer be ignored!

3. Introduction IP issues of relevance Benefits of developing an IP portfolio IP filing strategy Recent IP updates

4. Patents Monopoly Lasts 20 years Does not have to be complex Must be new Must be inventive

5. Benefits of Patents Barrier to entry Access to other markets An asset Taxation benefits Other benefits

6. Filing strategy – Patents Preliminary Patent application National Applications PCT application

7. Filing strategy – Patents - Main Factors Cost Company Profile Nature of Invention

8. Trade marks Any sign capable of being represented graphically….. Words Logos Slogans Colours etc

9. Benefits of Trademarks Facilitate repeat purchases Avoid confusion Facilitate expansion Valuable asset

10. Filing Strategy – Trademarks Similar rules apply Cover markets Consider future expansion

11. Recent Updates in IP law Green Channel at UKIPO Specifically for “Green” or “Environmentally Friendly” inventions Speeds up grant procedure significantly, grant in < 1 year Publications of Patent informatics on UKIPO website

12. Summary Every company has IPR Your IPR have a significant value Protection and exploitation crucial

13. For more information or a free 1 hour consultation contact: [email_address] 8a Sandyford Business Centre Sandyford Dublin 18 Tel: 01 2992222 Fax: 01 2992299 Web: www.cruickshank.ie