1. Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA)

For: Any idea

Cost: Free

Ensure that before you tell anyone about your idea you make it clear that it is highly confidential. Request that any information discussed should not be disclosed to a third party.

Bring 2 copies of a pre-prepared NDA that are signed, countersigned and kept by both parties prior to you telling them your idea.

 Where to go: Check out this PDF from the Patent Office for advice and an example of a NDA

2. Patent

For: An idea can be patented if it is;

• A new and improved product or process
• Contains an inventive step - it must not be obvious
• It must be capable of being made, used, or have an industrial application

Cost: Normally £200 but patent agent fees can be much larger as can extending the patent to cover other countries.

Where to go: Local patent agents / attorneys (check that anyone you consult for advice is registered with the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys). Also check out the Patent Office website.

3. Registered Trade Mark

For: Any branding mark that can be represented graphically

Cost: £200, renewable every 10 years

Where to go: Local patent agents / attorneys (check that anyone you consult for advice is registered with the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys). Also check out the Patent Office website.

4. Registered Design

For: The shape configuration, colour, texture and material of any 3D or 2D object, where that shape is novel.

Cost: £60 for 5 years, renewable every 5 years for a maximum of 25.

Where to go: Local patent agents / attorneys (check that anyone you consult for advice is registered with the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys). Also check out the Patent Office website .

5. Copyright

For: Literary, graphic and audiovisual works.

Cost: Free

Where to go: Copyright protection is automatic as soon as there is a record in any form of the material that has been created, and there is no official registration or form or fee. But creators can take certain steps to help prove that material is theirs.

Check out the information on this Government site for more detailed information on Intellectual Property and how you can protect your idea.

Now you have legally protected your idea you are in an excellent position to start thinking about making some money from it. Please proceed to Step 3.

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