Stream 1: IP Education and Awareness
Apply for a multi-day cohort program. Identify the different forms of IP, develop a strategy, and integrate IP into your business goals. Fulfils educational requirement for Stream 2-2 and 3.
Attend specialized IP seminars and workshops, engage with the BC tech community and network with other founders both in-person and online.
Access self-guided online courses to get an overview of IP basics and take the first steps into your IP journey.
Eligibility for Stream 1
For Stream 1, you’ll need to meet the general eligibility guidelines for the program:
- Be a startup based in BC, Yukon, Northwest Territories or Nunavut
- Have fewer than 500 full-time employees
- Have an innovative technology and/or operate in the tech sector
- Non-profit organizations that meet the above may also apply
To apply for our IP Certification program, companies will complete an IP-Assessment to help determine your IP readiness and knowledge. All tech-startups are welcome to apply, this assessment serves to identify your starting point.
Not sure where to begin?
Book a time with our IP Executive in Residence and former IP Lawyer, Chang Han, during his virtual Office Hours!
Whether you have questions about the right program or need guidance on AccelerateIP, Chang is here to help you navigate your options.
Please note, this isn’t legal advice but a chance to explore your opportunities within our programs.
Stream 1 FAQs
Does it matter how many years my company has been a startup? Is there an “age” cap?
Our current guidelines do not have an age restriction for startup. That said, we will be weighing all factors of applications, including age of startup, revenue, and maturity in relation to tech sector when determining which companies may be awarded funding or will make the best use of funding.
Can my startup participate if we are incorporated in another province but have a significant presence in BC, Yukon, NWT or Nunavut?
Our definition of eligibility is for a company to based in BC, Yukon, NWT, or Nunavut. It is possible your company may have incorporated in another province, but have the majority of its operations in BC. We will look at these on a case-by-case to determine if you are best served by AccelerateIP or on of the other ElevateIP recipients across Canada.
What offerings fulfill the educational requirement for Stream 2-2?
Completion of the IP Certification program or IP Pathways fulfils the education requirement for Stream 2-2.
What offerings fulfill the educational requirement for Stream 3?
Graduation from the IP Certification Program or IP Pathways fulfils the educational requirement for Stream 3.