Blog
January 23, 2025
Communitech’s ElevateIP program provides financial support to Canadian startups to build and manage intellectual property portfolios. Funding can be used for IP strategy development, patent and trademark filings, and commercialization efforts, empowering businesses to drive innovation and unlock growth. Apply now.
December 19, 2024
Effective January 1, 2025, Canada’s Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) framework compensates patentees for unreasonable delays in patent issuance by the Patent Office. The PTA grants additional term protection, calculated based on delays beyond prescribed timelines, for applications filed on or after December 1, 2020.
December 13, 2024
Starting January 2025, Trademark owners in Canada are now subject to a new CIPO pilot project where the Registrar may issue Section 45 notices, requiring proof of use for trademarks registered over three years. Ensure your trademarks are protected by maintaining proper records of use.
December 4, 2024
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) will implement its annual inflation-adjusted fee increases for trademarks under the Service Fees Act. The increase is 4.4%, across the board.
November 29, 2024
North American businesses are the target of a new trademark phishing scam, prompting a detailed warning from the College of Patent Agents and Trademark Agents (CPATA). To stay protected, always verify the source and avoid responding to suspicious correspondence.
November 22, 2024
The USPTO has announced significant changes to its patent fee structure, effective January 19, 2025. Stay ahead by planning strategically to manage costs and filings effectively.
November 11, 2024
A recent EPO decision on machine learning patents emphasizes the need for detailed technical disclosures, clarifying standards for inventors aiming to secure patent protection for AI innovations.
October 24, 2024
Building on Innovation: Expanded Industrial Design Protection for Buildings and Structures in Canada
A recent shift in industrial design examination practice introduces new opportunities for architects and developers to protect their architectural designs.
October 17, 2024
Marvel and DC lose ownership of 'super hero' trademarks as USPTO rules the term generic, in the public domain and not exclusive to comic giants.
October 8, 2024
Defining Goods and Services in Canadian Trademark Applications: Requirements and Tips for Applicants
Defining goods and services in Canadian trademark applications requires precision. This guide covers key requirements from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), including using "ordinary commercial terms" and avoiding vague language. By following CIPO’s guidelines and utilizing their Pre-Approved List, applicants can expedite examination, reduce costs, and avoid common issues with trademark applications.
September 19, 2024
Andrew Currier, CPATA Elected Director, reflects on recent developments in Canada's IP landscape, covering board transitions, regulatory updates and more!
September 4, 2024
Divisional patent applications play a crucial role in patent portfolios, particularly when an application describes multiple closely related inventions.
August 26, 2024
Brand and trademark owners who do business in Québec need to be aware of the specific language requirements in the province.
August 8, 2024
The Federal Court of Canada has taken proactive steps to provide clear guidance on the use of AI in court proceedings.
June 5, 2024
2024 BCSC 3: The Supreme Court of British Columbia recently granted an interlocutory injunction in a trademark dispute between Arc'teryx Equipment and adidas Canada.
May 29, 2024
2024 FCA 23: In Pharmascience v Janssen, the Federal Court of Appeal offers additional commentary on the patentability of methods of medical treatment in Canada.
May 13, 2024
A second-year student majoring in immunology is this year's winner of the PCK Diversity Scholarship for students in science or engineering.
January 10, 2024
2023 CACP 23: Hot on the heels of the recent Benjamin Moore decision, Canada's Patent Appeal Board has considered the patentability of a computer-implemented invention.
November 27, 2023
New government programs can enhance your strategic approach to IP. Here are some recommendations on how to prepare your corporation for government funding.
November 16, 2023
Fed. Cir. No. 2021-2299, 2021-2338: This is the second time the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has reversed a finding of infringement and sent the design patent back to lower courts.