Probono IPR Support for Startups

Description

The SIPP scheme aims to assist start-ups in protecting their intellectual property by providing them with access to high-quality IPR services at minimal costs. Key features of the scheme include:

Facilitators for IP Filings: Empanelled facilitators, including patent agents, trademark agents, and advocates, provide start-ups with assistance in filing and processing their IP applications.
Subsidized Fees: The government bears the professional fees of the facilitators, while start-ups only need to pay the statutory fees for IP filings.
Awareness and Training: The scheme includes awareness programs and training sessions to educate start-ups about the importance of IPR and the procedures for securing IP protection.

OVERVIEW

The Start-up Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) Scheme is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at protecting and promoting the intellectual property rights (IPR) of start-ups. Launched in 2016 under the Start-up India program, the SIPP scheme provides support for filing patents, trademarks, and designs through subsidized fees and access to expert facilitators. The scheme is designed to encourage innovation and creativity among start-ups by reducing the financial and procedural burden associated with IP filings.

BENEFITS

The SIPP scheme offers several benefits to start-ups, including:

Cost-Effective IP Filings:

Start-ups receive financial support for professional fees associated with filing patents, trademarks, and designs.
The government covers the costs of facilitators, making IP protection more affordable.

Access to Expert Assistance:

Start-ups can avail the services of experienced and empanelled IP professionals for filing and prosecuting their IP applications.
Facilitators provide end-to-end support, from drafting applications to responding to examination reports.

Faster Processing:

The scheme facilitates expedited examination of patent applications, helping start-ups secure their IP rights more quickly.
Start-ups can benefit from a streamlined process, reducing the time and effort required for IP filings.

Awareness and Capacity Building:

The scheme conducts workshops, seminars, and training sessions to educate start-ups about IPR.
Start-ups gain knowledge about the strategic importance of IP protection and the procedures involved in securing IP rights.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

To apply for benefits under the SIPP scheme, start-ups typically need to provide the following documents:

Certificate of Incorporation/Registration:

Proof of the start-up’s incorporation or registration as a company, LLP, or partnership firm.

Start-up Recognition Certificate:

Certificate of recognition as a start-up from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Patent/Trademark/Design Application:

Draft application for the IP filing, including all necessary details and documents related to the invention, trademark, or design.

Power of Attorney:

Power of Attorney authorizing the facilitator to act on behalf of the start-up in IP matters.

Identification and Address Proof:

ID and address proof of the start-up’s authorized signatory (e.g., Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID).

FAQs

Q1: What is the SIPP scheme?

The Start-up Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) Scheme is an initiative by the Government of India to provide start-ups with financial and procedural support for filing patents, trademarks, and designs.

Q2: Who is eligible for the SIPP scheme?

Start-ups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) are eligible for the SIPP scheme.

Q3: What types of intellectual property can be protected under the SIPP scheme?

Start-ups can seek protection for patents, trademarks, and designs under the SIPP scheme.

Q4: How does the SIPP scheme reduce the cost of IP filings?

The government bears the professional fees of the facilitators assisting with IP filings, while startups only need to pay the statutory fees.

Q5: What role do facilitators play in the SIPP scheme?

Facilitators are empanelled IP professionals who assist start-ups in drafting, filing, and prosecuting their IP applications, providing end-to-end support throughout the process.

Q6: How can a start-up apply for the SIPP scheme?

Start-ups can apply for the SIPP scheme by approaching an empanelled facilitator and providing the necessary documents, including the DPIIT recognition certificate and a draft IP application.

Q7: Are there any training or awareness programs under the SIPP scheme?

Yes, the SIPP scheme includes workshops, seminars, and training sessions to educate start-ups about the importance of IPR and the procedures for securing IP protection.

Q8: What is the turnaround time for IP filings under the SIPP scheme?

The SIPP scheme facilitates expedited examination of patent applications, aiming to reduce the time required for securing IP rights. However, the exact turnaround time may vary depending on the specific IP office procedures.

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