The eMARKS project was launched in September 2007 with funding from the European Commission and eight EU partners. Over an 18-month period, the project aimed to market validate and initially deploy an image search service called eMAGE to optimize trademark and industrial design protection across the EU. The service allows identification of similar trademarks and designs registered with EU intellectual property offices. Key activities included testing the attractiveness, functionality, and effectiveness of the eMAGE service; optimizing content collection and business partnerships; and developing a realistic deployment plan based on market validation trials.