Intellectual property: a secret that’s too well kept

Although often overlooked, intellectual property (IP) should be at the heart of every company’s strategy. Yet in Canada, only 18.2% of companies own some form of IP, according to Montreal-based attorney David Durand. This lack of interest stems in part from a lack of understanding of the subject and the perception that protecting IP entails significant costs.  

For Damien Calvet, partner and patent attorney at Gowling WLG, it is essential to check the status of existing patents and trademarks before bringing a product to market. This approach helps avoid the risk of infringement and protects a company’s own innovations. IP must therefore be integrated into the marketing strategy from the earliest stages of a project.  

However, patenting is not always the best option. In some cases, trade secrets may offer more durable and less costly protection. Regardless of the choice, IP remains a strategic asset: it strengthens a company’s credibility, can be monetized through licensing, and helps attract investors. When properly integrated into the business plan, it becomes an essential lever for long-term value creation. 

  

To read the full article in Les Affaires (in french only)