The event was opened by Professor William Leahy, Vice Provost, Brunel University London, who considered the connection between IP and his own research around Shakespeare and the concept of authorship.
Professor Robert Holdway, Director of Innovation at Co-Innovate Brunel University, introduced Co-innovate - an innovation support programme for London based SMEs, entrepreneurs and start-ups. Their goal is to help companies achieve business growth through collaboration with Brunel University London’s world class academic expertise, knowledge assets and facilities, jointly funded by Brunel University London and the European Regional Development Fund. Robert discussed the importance of IP in light of his involvement working with many SMEs, entrepreneurs and start-ups as well as his own experience as founder of Giraffe Innovation Ltd.
Dr Hayleigh Bosher, Lecturer in Intellectual Property Brunel University talked the audience through the different types of IP and how they are relevant to successful business. She highlighted the benefits of making informed decisions and mitigating risks but understanding IP, the need to conduct an IP Audit and develop a holistic IP Strategy.
Margaret Briffa, Leading Intellectual Property Lawyer at Briffa delivered an interesting and engaging talk ‘IP and how not to be foxed by it – Trunki Case Study.’ Margaret is well-known for representing businesses in infringement litigation concerning all core rights, in particular, trade marks, designs and anti-counterfeiting strategies. She told the infamous story of the Trunki case, and the lessons learnt such as the importance of early involvement of IP in the innovation process.
Nick Kounoupias, Chief Counsel Anti-Copying in Designs (ACID) talked about the impact of IP on the development of a product and the importance of having an IP strategy in place, particularly considering Design rights.
After coffee, the next speaker was Mandy Haberman, Inventor and Entrepreneur best known for the ground-breaking Haberman Feeder and Anywayup® Cup. Mandy reflected on her experience of enforcing her intellectual property against a competitor giant who copied her invention, sharing valuable lessons.
Finally, Philip Naylor, Patent Attorney from Carpmaels & Ransford gave the audience a deepers understanding of patents and the patent application process.
More than 50 attendees from a diverse range of industry, designers and lawyers enjoyed a networking lunch. Following which, the Brunel Law students provided pro bono meetings with over 20 businesses, supervised by Brunel Law School’s Pro Bono Co-ordinator, Anjali Kemwal and IP lecturer, Dr Hayleigh Bosher.
Click on the image below to watch our summary video:
The IP Pro Bono offered a chance for Brunel Law Students gain experience working with real clients, whilst providing valuable assistance to business on their intellectual property!