# Own It or Lose It: Why SMBs Can’t Ignore Intellectual Property

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-better-smb-podcast-7059551/own-it-or-lose-it-why-smbs-can-t-ignore-intellectual-property
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-better-smb-podcast-7059551/own-it-or-lose-it-why-smbs-can-t-ignore-intellectual-property.md
Podcast: [The Better SMB Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-better-smb-podcast-7059551)
Published: 2025-05-28T10:01:32+00:00
Episode link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/own-it-or-lose-it-why-smbs-can-t-ignore-intellectual-property--66311140
Audio file: https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/66311140/6b073985_e486_8f88_c2a1_1353b5ea5b39.mp3
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Duration seconds: 3304

## Resource

We’re diving deep into intellectual property (IP) protection, exploring key insights and perspectives from Ben Cain , Partner at James & Wells and former marketing executive turned IP specialist. We discuss how small businesses can safeguard their innovations, build brand value, and create competitive barriers through strategic IP management. We cover: Why early-stage IP strategy is mission-critical for future valuation and investor confidence. Budgeting for trademarks, designs, and patents - what real-world costs look like and how to prioritise them. Sector-specific IP pitfalls and opportunities in FMCG, food & beverage, professional services, and tech. Highlights include: “If you delay securing IP protection, it becomes too easy for somebody to copy you.” - Ben on the high price of procrastination “Investors always look for IP rights as evidence of a protected, valuable business” - why a clean IP register boosts your multiple “Cast your mind forward. Where do you want to be in three years, then work back to plan your IP strategy.” - Ben’s blueprint for proactive founders Key Takeaways: Grasp the differences between trademarks, registered designs and patents, and when each matters. It’s not as expensive as you may think, NZ $200 to NZ $5,000 may cover a lot of your initial needs; map these into your growth budget early. Strong IP positions raise market value, deter copycats, and shorten investor due diligence cycles. Thank you for tuning in to The Better SMB! Don't forget to like, subscribe, leave us a review and share this with a friend --------------------- Connect with Rob and David on LinkedIn Rob Bull David Altena Learn more about Plexus Consulting and the mission Rob is on to make NZ the best place in the world to do business Download David's NBR-feature…

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