From IP to IPO - IP rights from the investors perspective

For a young start-up, IP protection can serve as a powerful tool to protect future growth and secure venture capital. Although obtaining and protecting intellectual property involves costs that may deter start-ups, the investment generally has a positive return when viewed in terms of future fundraising and longevity of the business. Solid IP can also help to encourage future sales of the start-up. When evaluating companies to invest in, their IP and the way founders protect and manage it will certainly be on the checklist of the potential investor. A business model with unique customer benefits must always remain the main focus for founders. However, a good IP strategy proves to be an advantageous instrument to signal the value and potential of start-ups and the strategic thinking of the founders and helps to effectively protect the company in the medium and long term.