Launch of New “Horizon IP Scan” Support Service for SMEs

This tailored, first-line and free-of-charge IP support service is specifically designed to help European start-ups and other SMEs to efficiently manage and valorise IP in collaborative research and innovation efforts with a particular focus on EU-funded Horizon 2020/Europe projects. 
Building on a vast network of experienced, local IP experts covering all EU Member States and Horizon 2020/Europe associated countries, the Horizon IP Scan team provides an individual, professional, jargon-free assessment of SME’s intangible assets in order to:

• Show them how to protect their existing IP when starting on a research and innovation endeavour with multiple partners;
• Assist them in developing a shared strategy with their partners to manage and exploit new IP jointly generated in their project.

Who can apply?
The service is open to European start-ups and SMEs (according to the EC’s definition) that are about to sign a Horizon (2020/Europe) Grant Agreement or have recently signed one (up to six months after signature). In addition, Horizon IP Scan caters to SMEs signposted by the Horizon Results Booster (maximum until half of the project duration).
Also, SMEs that are referred to Horizon IP Scan by the Enterprise Europe Network in view of a planned cooperation with other entities on a R&I project are also eligible for the service up to six months after the beginning of a project, but preferably before any agreement is signed.

How to apply? 
Following a continuous open call scheme, SMEs interested in the Horizon IP Scan can apply for the service any time via the Horizon IP Scan website. 
Based on a first come, first serve approach, the service may either be provided to a single SME or, preferably, a group of SMEs involved in a collaborative research project. Managed by a central coordination team, the successful SME(s) applicant(s) will be matched individually with the corresponding local IP expert(s). Usually, the language applied will be that of the applicant(s) or English. 

Learn more about the service, its benefits for SMEs and further application details.