Intellectual property (IP) is “the set of exclusive rights granted to creators and companies over their intangible creations”. It includes several types of legal protection for works and inventions, with the aim of stimulating both innovation and creativity.
Intellectual property faces many preconceived ideas, which can hinder its development. These include:
- IP is a low-cost approach,
- IP is only for large companies,
- IP is only relevant in case of litigation, etc…
Nevertheless, it is vital to integrate intellectual property into business strategy from the outset, treating it as a long-term investment rather than an immediate cost. This was the theme addressed by George Elvira, Partner and Patent Agent at Gowling WLG, and Laurent Lecanu, Expert Business Development Manager for Leyton Canada, at our Leyton Connect event on Tuesday November 26, 2024.
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Find out more about our speakers:
- George Elvira: George is a partner and registered patent agent in Canada and the United States at Gowling WLG, based in Montréal. With over 16 years of experience in intellectual property (IP), he advises innovative organizations on developing and implementing IP management strategies aligned with their business goals. His expertise includes securing and managing patents, protecting trade secrets, and devising monetization plans for IP assets. George also plays a key role in complex transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, cross-border financing, and collaborative research partnerships.
- Laurent Lecanu: Laurent is a seasoned expert in innovation funding, with a specialization in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors.Currently Business Development Manager at Leyton Canada, he helps companies optimize their R&D projects, particularly through programs such as the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit.With over 15 years of experience in both public and private financing, Laurent is recognized as a trusted strategic advisor for innovative organizations.He recently represented Leyton at the Life Sciences Partnering Canada event in Ottawa, where he presented the various funding opportunities available to stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.
