When taking a new product, service, or innovation to market, it’s not enough to focus on development alone. Protecting what makes your business unique is just as important — especially if you’re planning to scale or export internationally. As a UK-based business consultancy offering specialist commercialisation support, A4B guides clients through the critical steps that turn good ideas into investable, scalable ventures. One of those key steps? Securing intellectual property (IP) protection through WIPO. What Is WIPO — and Why Is It Relevant? The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a United Nations agency that enables businesses to register their trade marks, patents, and designs in multiple countries via a single application process. This is particularly valuable for UK companies looking to operate internationally, giving you protection across borders without the cost and complexity of managing dozens of separate filings. Why WIPO Registration Adds Value to Your Business 1. Global IP Protection for Growth and Export Whether you're entering European markets, expanding into the US, or licensing your innovation abroad, WIPO registration ensures your IP is safeguarded — giving you legal clarity and commercial confidence. 2. Stronger Position for Investment and Licensing Having multi-national trade marks or patents registered through WIPO enhances your business’s credibility. Investors and licensing partners are far more likely to engage when your IP is clearly defined and internationally protected. 3. Fewer Legal Risks, More Focus on Growth IP issues can derail commercial progress. WIPO simplifies the protection process, reducing the risk of infringement or costly disputes as you expand into new markets. 4. Professionalism and Market Readiness Protected IP, in all its forms, is a clear signal to the market that your business is serious, compliant, and future-facing. It’s a strategic asset that supports long-term commercial success. Our Role in Your Commercialisation Strategy A4B works closely with UK-based entrepreneurs, start-ups, and growing businesses to help commercialise innovation effectively. A4B’s IP-related support includes: Identifying what should be protected Supporting IP strategy as part of your growth plan Referrals to trusted UK-based IP lawyers and attorneys Guidance through WIPO trade mark and patent registration processes - Being the Madrid Protocol and Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) respectively Using IP to support funding, franchising, or licensing conversations Whether you're developing a product, building a brand, or entering new markets, A4B will ensure your intellectual property strategy is aligned with your commercial goals. Let’s Protect What Makes You Valuable If you’re developing something innovative, protecting it is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Let A4B help you take the right steps now, so you can grow with confidence. Contact us to learn more about WIPO registration* and how we can support your commercial journey.  *Please note that UK applicants wishing to file via WIPO must have in place either; • A registered UK Trade Mark or, • be in the process of filing an application for such with the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) A4B is also a Registered Agent for the UK IPO and can readily support you through your early-stage IP protection process.

With less than a month to go until the Procurement Act comes into force on 24th February, the big question is: Will it really open doors for SMEs in public sector contracting?