Every business starts with an idea—a spark of creativity that, with the right tools and strategies, can transform into a thriving enterprise. Yet, many small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) underestimate the importance of intellectual property (IP). According to the 2024 IP Canada Report, businesses with formal IP tend to receive financing amounts 2.4 times higher than those without IP. Of the 30 percent of Canadian firms that reported developing product innovations between 2019 and 2022, just 38 percent of those protected their IP.
The 2025 North Forge IP Summit, presented by ElevateIP, seeks to change that.
A Marquis Intellectual Property Event
On February 26, the RBC Convention Centre will host this premier event. Attendees will dive into the critical world of IP with engaging sessions, expert insights, and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, this no-cost event offers invaluable strategies to safeguard and leverage your intellectual property.
A Keynote You Can’t Miss
One of the highlights of the summit is keynote speaker Jeff Ward, founder of Animikii, a web development and digital agency committed to uplifting Indigenous communities. Ward, an Ojibwe and Métis leader originally from Manitoba, has built a career on empowering others through technology and innovation. As a board member for Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and a recognized author and speaker, Jeff will share his unique perspective on the intersection of innovation, culture, and IP.
Why Intellectual Property Matters
The 2024 IP Canada Report emphasizes that Canadian business owners and investors are increasingly recognizing the importance of IP for growth and competitiveness. SMEs owning formal IP were approved for debt financing at an average of $757,000—three times higher than businesses without IP. Moreover, SMEs with formal IP are more likely to secure government financing and leverage their assets for growth and expansion.
Sylvia de Sousa, a lawyer who specializes in intellectual property at Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP and works with some of North Forge’s ElevateIP clients, pressed the importance of a well-planned IP strategy.
“For most start-ups, IP is a key investment in and component of growth and increasing competitive edge in the market,” she said. “Failing to develop an IP strategy that properly protects the business’s IP rights at the early stages may result in challenges and obstacles later on that could prevent the business from further development and expansion.”
What to Expect
Guiding attendees through the summit is emcee Margaux Miller, a celebrated event host and community leader in the tech and startup ecosystem.
Attendees will gain actionable insights into why IP matters, thanks to a panel that explores how proactive intellectual property (IP) strategies can drive business success. Founders like Carbon Lock Tech’s Kevin Danner and Campaign Compass’ Nancy Cooke will share their stories and experiences, while lawyers like Dan Partriarca from Filmore Riley LLP and Yvan Guy Larocque at Hall & Larocque LLP will highlight the importance of integrating IP considerations early in a business journey. By attending, you can gain expert insights, networking opportunities and practical knowledge to leverage as you grow your business.
Build, Protect, and Prosper
The 2025 IP Summit isn’t just a conference; it’s an investment in your business’s future. With the guidance of experts and industry leaders, you’ll leave equipped with the knowledge and connections to take your ideas from concept to impact. For more information and to reserve your ticket today, visit www.northforge.ca/ipsummit. Following the IP Summit, guests may also enjoy attending Bioscience Association Manitoba’s Funding Day event, also being held at RBC Convention Centre. For more information, visit www.biomb.ca/events/.
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