Join us for a deep dive on a key startup topic: when to file patent applications. In a casual conversation, we will explore key concepts and strategies that inventors and startups should consider when building a patent portfolio to conserve scarce IP dollars.
Why This Chat?
In the tech world, every dollar counts. Hear from some of the leading patent practitioners on strategies they use with their clients to build their portfolios wisely, while still obtaining broad protections. From ensuring utility and disclosure requirements are satisfied to strategic use of provisional, International PCT, divisional, and continuation applications to best practices on claiming priority in foreign jurisdictions, come listen to practical advice every IP-focused startup should know.
What You’ll Gain:
Who Should Join?
Whether you’re at the seed stage or scaling rapidly, if your startup is navigating the tech ecosystem, this conversation is for you. Founders, tech innovators, and anyone vested in the future of intellectual property in the startup space— gather ’round the fire.
About the Session:
This isn’t just another lecture on IP rights; it’s a chance to join a community of like-minded individuals ready to tackle the complexities of IP strategy together. We’re peeling back the layers of legal jargon to reveal the actionable steps you can take to protect your company’s most valuable assets.
Presenters:
Joanna Ma – Joanna Ma is an intellectual property (IP) strategist and patent lawyer at Bereskin & Parr LLP. She offers her clients strategic advice on developing and growing IP portfolios that are aligned with their business opportunities and goals. Joanna also assists her clients with commercializing and monetizing these IP rights, and with developing a balanced approach to the enforcement of their IP rights.
Ainslie Parsons – Ainslie is a partner with Bereskin & Parr LLP and a member of the Life Sciences practice group. Ainslie’s practice focuses on drafting and prosecution of patent applications related to life sciences matters, including biologics, diagnostics, plants and plant technology, biotechnology, food and pharmaceuticals. She also advises on patent issues such as validity, infringement and freedom to operate and has expertise in IP licensing.
Byron Thom (moderator) – Byron is a lifelong technology enthusiast who has worn many hats in his tech career. Trained as an engineer and a lawyer, he practiced at one of the leading IP boutiques in Canada helping startups and multinationals protect their technological assets. As a startup founder, he is a patented inventor who drafted and prosecuted his company’s own patent applications. And, as a venture capitalist and board member, he often works with his portfolio companies to develop IP strategies to focus their limited resources on key assets that matter to the business, to investors and to potential acquirers. Byron is a Partner at the BDC Industrial Innovation Venture Fund and sits on the Board of Governors at UBC.
