Practical Guide to Valorise Intellectual Property with the Goal to Raise Funds

Published by FPS Economy, S.M.E.s., Self-employed and Energy, Séverine Waterbley

Over the last decade, intellectual property assets have increasingly contributed to the market value of companies, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This has primarily been driven by the emergence of a new economy, known as the knowledge economy. IP assets have since then become decisive for our economy.

The report presents the four main ways companies can leverage their IP assets in Belgium:

• Securing subsidies for intellectual property and for research and development (R&D)
• Existing tax benefits
• Using IP to raise finance for a loan or via equity;
• Different sources of direct income.

The guide also provides a series of recommendations, based on those that exist in other countries, and on how SMEs can use their IP assets to access suitable financing options.

Finally, a FAQ addresses a number of principal questions that SMEs can ask in relation to the valorisation of their IP. The guide also includes a list of important contacts for SMEs to navigate the formalities involved in IP valorisation.