Funding for UK SMEs – the IP audit scheme

Following its popularity in recent years, the UKIPO’s funding programme via the IP audit scheme continues to be available in 2025 and into 2026. 

The funding offers a powerful tool for SMEs to understand, manage and leverage their Intellectual Property (IP). The scheme provides grants of up to £2,250 for eligible SMEs to obtain a professional IP audit conduct by an IP attorney. An IP audit will review your existing portfolio, identify potential gaps in your protection, and uncover opportunities to protect and commercialise innovation to develop a robust IP strategy.

The scope of an IP audit report is broad and will be specifically tailored to your current position and future plans: consider it a full review of where you are. It will include a complete IP checklist to show potential investors and collaborators why you have or haven’t done something. Is your innovation patent eligible? Do you own the copyright in your logo? Should you file a trade mark application in China? All of the relevant questions will be raised and the outcome is a bespoke report with recommendations as to the exploitation and management of your IP, associated costs and timelines. You will also have a follow up meeting to talk through your options.

The IP audit scheme is delivered in collaboration with the UKIPO through regional partners including:

• England – Innovate UK Business Growth
• Scotland – Scottish Enterprise
• Highlands and Islands – Highlands and Islands Enterprises
• Wales – Business Wales
• Northern Ireland – Invest Northern Ireland

SMEs are encouraged to contact the relevant partner in their region for more information.  At GJE we regularly conduct IP audits for our clients. At the initial meeting we explore your business objectives and any existing IP you own to put together an IP strategy that will support your commercial goals. Following our meeting we will compile a strategic report with our recommendations as to next steps. Included in the cost of the IP audit is a follow-up call where we discuss any changes to be made, with no obligation to take any further action.

The IP audit costs £3,000 (inclusive of VAT) and provided the SME contributes £750, the UKIPO funds the remaining £2,250. It provides a great opportunity for SMEs to access professional IP advice at a greatly reduced rate.

If you would like us to help with your application for funding, or you wish to discuss your options, please get in touch: gje@gje.com.