In today’s competitive business environment, protecting your brand and ideas is more crucial than ever. This is particularly true for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often face unique challenges in securing and managing their intellectual property (IP). Recently, Accountancy Europe highlighted this issue in a video interview with Giancarlo Attolini, an Italian accountant dedicated to guiding SMEs through the complexities of IP registration. The interview forms part of Accountancy Europe’s ongoing commitment with the Ideas Powered for Business network, an initiative by the Intellectual Property Office of the European Union (EUIPO).
Giancarlo Attolini brings years of experience in advising SMEs on strategies for securing their intellectual and industrial property. In the interview, he discusses the importance of IP as a valuable asset that can give businesses a distinct edge in their market. According to Attolini, SMEs can benefit significantly from the resources provided by EUIPO, which offers financial assistance covering not only trademark registration fees but also consulting costs. This support makes it easier for smaller businesses to protect their brand and intellectual assets from competitors, a critical step in fostering business growth and sustainability.
Attolini highlights that in today’s economy, a strong brand identity isn’t just a perk – it’s essential. Intellectual property, especially trademarks, serves as a recognisable and legally protected asset that sets a business apart from others. For SMEs competing in both B2B and B2C sectors, having a distinctive brand that stands out from competitors can be a deciding factor in building customer loyalty and trust.
Moreover, he emphasises the importance of safeguarding not only logos and symbols but also the innovative ideas that drive a company forward. Patents, for example, protect a business’s unique technological advancements or industrial processes, enabling SMEs to maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Attolini points out that as innovation continues to shape our economic landscape, protecting these assets through intellectual property has never been more critical.
For SMEs, failing to secure IP can be costly. As Attolini explains, a business may pour significant resources into developing new branding or advertising campaigns, only to find that these assets are not effectively protected against counterfeiting or misuse by competitors. When IP isn’t properly registered or legally safeguarded, the investment put into creating and promoting a brand can be undermined, leaving the business vulnerable.
This is where advisors like Attolini come in – accountants, as trusted partners to SMEs, can help businesses prioritise their IP goals and align them with their broader strategy. He believes accountants are in a unique position to guide SMEs towards a more sustainable future by ensuring that IP protection is integrated into the company’s overall development plan. This approach not only mitigates risks but also enhances the business’s value over time.
Beyond traditional IP management, Accountancy Europe’s partnership with Ideas Powered for Business is also focused on promoting sustainability. The initiative encourages SMEs to explore how innovation, IP, and digitalisation can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Ideas Powered for Business, in cooperation with Accountancy Europe and other members, has recently published these informative leaflets on how businesses can leverage innovation and IP to support a sustainable future.
These and more resources, available here and on the Ideas Powered for Business website, offer actionable insights into how digital tools and IP can work together to create a positive impact on both the economy and the environment.
As advisers with an in-depth understanding of their clients’ needs, accountants play a key role in helping SMEs identify and act on strategic priorities. Attolini explains that, through proper IP planning, accountants can help businesses optimise their taxes, access public funding, and tap into research grants. When SMEs incorporate IP protection into their business strategy with the support of their accountants, they can confidently drive innovation while ensuring that their intellectual assets are legally protected.
For SMEs looking to secure their competitive edge, develop their brand identity, and contribute to a sustainable future, IP protection is an essential step. Through Accountancy Europe’s partnership with the Ideas Powered for Business network, businesses have access to tools, resources, and expert insights to help them navigate the complexities of IP registration and management.
To explore the resources and insights available, including recently published leaflets on how innovation, IP, and digitalisation can drive a more sustainable future, visit the Ideas Powered for Business website. Here, SMEs can access the latest information and support in securing their intellectual property, protecting their business’s future, and contributing to a more sustainable world.
Does your innovation contribute to a more sustainable future? Maximise its benefits for your business - leaflet
Unlocking digital success with intellectual property - leaflet
Example 1: transforming a traditional retail business
Example 2: Digitalisation of healthcare services
Example 3: Online gaming example
