Intellectual property (IP) is a vital asset for startups, and this video series provides entrepreneurs with the essential knowledge to protect and monetize their ideas. It begins with an introduction to the main types of IP and why they matter, followed by a practical guide to securing a first patent and navigating the application process. The later modules explore how companies manage IP strategically through litigation, partnerships, and licensing, how startups can access university-owned technologies, and real-world insights from founders who share their experiences and lessons learned in developing effective IP strategies

WELCOME VIDEO

A brief introduction to the series that outlines its purpose and provides an overview of the topics covered in each module.
Speaker: Alberto Galasso, Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto

MODULE 1: Introduction to intellectual property

This module provides an introduction to the different types of IP and why they matter for entrepreneurs.
Speaker: Alberto Galasso, Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto

MODULE 2: Securing Your First Patent 

This module examines the key steps in filing a patent and presents strategies for effectively navigating the patent application process.
Speaker: Stephen Leonard, Registered Patent Agent in Canada and the US and Partner at Aird & McBurney LP

MODULE 3: Managing Your IP

This module looks at how companies strategically use intellectual property, whether through litigation, partnerships, or licensing, and why these decisions can shape the future of your business.
Speaker: Alberto Galasso, Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto

MODULE 4: Licensing from universities

This module explains how startups can access university-owned IP, and what to watch for in licensing agreements.
Speaker: Tamara O’Connell, Intellectual Property Lawyer and Patent Agent, Senior Counsel at RBC  

MODULE 5: Real-world lessons from startup founders

In this module, you will hear directly from entrepreneurs who share their experiences with IP strategy.
Speakers: Alberto Galasso, Darren Kraemer, Founder and CEO of Light Matter and Surath Gomis, Co-founder of Arma Biosciences