Regional European Intellectual Property Helpdesks

The European Commission provides IP-related support to small and medium-sized companies from the EU and associated SMP (Single Market Programme) countries through the IP SME Helpdesks. These helpdesks aim to assist businesses seeking to protect intellectual property in various countries or regions worldwide. 

The IP SME Helpdesks provide coverage for Europe, China, India, Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa. These Helpdesks offer valuable support to SMEs that have commercial or R&D relations with these countries, those aiming to establish a presence in the region, or those with potential trade interests in these specific countries.

I cordially invite small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to discover and utilize the extensive range of services offered by the IP SME Helpdesks. These services are specifically tailored to support SMEs in their intellectual property (IP) endeavors, whether they are operating in or planning to work with Europe, China, India, Latin America, Southeast Asia, or Africa.

Services of the Helpdesks

1. Helpline
   IP SME Helpdesks’ expert team of intellectual property specialists offers first-line advisory services on IP protection and enforcement. Within a maximum of 3 working days, you will receive professional, confidential, and tailor-made answers to your IP-related questions.
2. Training Events and Webinars
   The IP SME Helpdesks provide on-site and online training activities covering relevant IP topics. These sessions are designed for SMEs and entrepreneurs aiming to expand their businesses to other markets. From basic principles and the benefits of Intellectual Property for SMEs to specific tools and procedures for managing IP rights in a particular country or region, IP SME Helpdesks’ training events offer valuable insights. During and after these sessions, participants have the opportunity to directly ask IP experts any questions they may have.
3. IP Content
   Helpdesks offer a collection of state-of-the-art publications, including factsheets, infographics, case studies, and videos. These resources specifically address the protection and enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) from the perspective of SMEs’ business needs.
4. IP Diagnostic Tool
   The toolkit is designed to help SMEs analyze their level of preparedness and knowledge in IP. It covers areas such as IP protection, IP internationalization and commercialization, and IP practices. By using this tool, SMEs can identify relevant aspects in which they may need further information and support.
5. IP Cost Tool
   This tool provides SMEs with valuable insights into the financial aspects of IP registration.
6. Horizon IP Scan
   The IP Scan services have certain limitations in their usage. These services are specifically designed to assist European start-ups and other SMEs engaged in EU-funded collaborative research projects in effectively managing and leveraging IP within collaborative R&I endeavors. As a result, this service is exclusively available for those involved in EU-funded projects.

All of these services are freely accessible, and I encourage SMEs to take full advantage of the support provided by the IP SME Helpdesks. Empower your business with the knowledge, guidance, and resources necessary to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Info sources:

Intellectual Property Helpdesk 
IP management and resources