IP Fall 2024 Event Roundup & Takeaways

This fall, Stratford Group’s Intellectual Property team has been actively engaging with industry leaders, clients, and innovators across multiple events. With a mix of engaging presentations and valuable networking opportunities, this season has been filled with chances to demonstrate our expertise and engage with new audiences. Highlights include Jordan Pynn’s presentation at Techtoberfest 2024, where he unpacked strategies for IP preparation in high-stakes M&A deals, and Myriam Davidson's speaking engagement at the Global Healthcare Innovation Summit where she spoke on essential strategies for CxOs regarding IP management, showcasing strategies, and securing funding.

Below, we’ve compiled summaries and takeaways, capturing the key points from our discussions and highlighting actionable strategies. Whether you’re curious about preparing for major exit deals, securing capital for your IP portfolio, or the latest advancements in IP management, here are the event recaps you don't want to miss.

Global Healthcare Innovation Summit

This year’s Global Healthcare Innovation Summit was a hub of groundbreaking ideas and collaborative discussions on the future of healthcare and technology. Taking place on September 11-12 in Ottawa, this 2-day event brought together a diverse group of experts to share insights and advancements in healthcare. Among them was Stratford Intellectual Property's Vice President Myriam Davidson.

Topics Covered: The summit was dedicated to pivotal areas in healthcare innovation, covering a range of topics such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Healthcare, mRNA Technology, Image-based Diagnostics, Immunotherapy, Gene Editing, Virtual Reality, and Telehealth. Attendees included leaders from Biotech, Pharma, CROs, CDMOs, and the investment community. Stratford's Participation: Myriam Davidson, Vice President of Stratford Intellectual Property, delivered a compelling presentation titled “IP Strategy - Knowing the Money and How to Showcase It.” Her session provided attendees with critical insights and essential strategies for CxOs to develop comprehensive IP strategies, effectively showcase IP assets, and navigate funding opportunities.

• Key Takeaways and Insights:
  • Building Effective IP Strategies: Myriam emphasized the importance of aligning IP strategy with business objectives to ensure companies are prepared for investor and partner engagement.
  • Funding and Showcasing IP: Attendees learned practical approaches for showcasing IP to potential investors, with tips on how to enhance IP portfolios for funding readiness.
  • Collaborative Ecosystem: The summit also highlighted programs such as Carleton University’s Technology Innovation Management (TIM) and Master of Biotechnology Program, showcasing their role in bridging academia with industry to drive innovation. Capital BioVentures introduced their new accelerator program providing early-stage funding, expert mentorship, and lab access.
  • OBio's Role in Advocacy: Highlighted their involvement in policy and program development to support health tech commercialization.

Techtoberfest: The Intersection of Innovation and IP Protection

Techtoberfest took place on October 10, 2024, hosted by Communitech. This event gathered the tech community at the heart of the Toronto-Waterloo Corridor, drawing together founders, partners, investors, and community members for a day of connection, inspiration, and celebration. Jordan Pynn, Myriam Davidson and Paul Fortin, all members of Stratford's leadership team were in attendance to advantage of this unique and popular networking opportunity.

Topics Covered: The event featured a blend of insightful sessions and networking opportunities, including an inspiring keynote and panel discussions on current tech trends. Attendees could participate in breakout sessions segmented by interest areas and engage in an exciting pitch competition.  Stratford's Participation: Jordan Pynn, from Stratford Intellectual Property, delivered a session titled “How to Showcase Your IP for Funding and M&A.” A memorable highlight was a thought-provoking analogy comparing different levels of IP protection to the robustness of a security system. This drove home the importance of a comprehensive IP strategy that goes beyond patent ownership and reinforced the need for strategic preparation when showcasing IP assets for funding or mergers and acquisitions.

• Key Takeaways and Insights:
  • Layered IP Strategy: Jordan’s presentation underscored the importance of going beyond basic IP protection and adopting a robust, multi-layered approach to safeguard innovations effectively.
  • Investor Readiness: The session provided valuable guidance on how businesses can prepare their IP to attract potential investors, showcasing readiness for due diligence and strengthening their competitive edge.
  • Community Engagement: The event reinforced the collaborative nature of the tech community, with opportunities to build partnerships and gain fresh perspectives on navigating IP challenges in a fast-paced industry.

Healthy IP Strategies in Life Sciences & Health Tech

The Healthy IP Strategies in Life Sciences & Health Tech event was held on October 30, 2024, at Carleton University. This full-day event was hosted by the Ontario Bioscience Innovation Organization (OBio) and gathered a mix of IP experts, founders, and industry leaders to delve into effective and proactive IP management in the life sciences and health tech fields along with its role in ensuring successful commercialization and long-term business sustainability.

• • Topics Covered: The event focused on crucial aspects of IP strategy, including protecting intellectual property specific to healthcare innovations, preparing for due diligence and licensing, and understanding the various IP support programs available. Attendees also benefited from networking opportunities with peers and experts, promoting collaboration and shared learning.
  • Stratford's Participation: Myriam Davidson, Vice President of Stratford Intellectual Property and an authority on IP strategy, represented Stratford at the event. Her session offered practical insights on building healthy IP strategies tailored for healthcare innovators. She guided attendees on key preparation steps for due diligence and licensing, providing clear strategies to help companies showcase their IP in the best possible light and optimize opportunities for growth and funding.

  • Key Takeaways and Insights:

    • Tailored IP Strategies: The importance of adapting IP strategies to the specific type of healthcare innovation to ensure comprehensive protection and long-term sustainability.
    • Due Diligence Readiness: Myriam stressed the need for thorough preparation for licensing and due diligence, emphasizing that being well-prepared can significantly boost investment prospects.
    • Access to Support Programs: Attendees gained knowledge about various IP support programs that provide assistance with funding, resources, and strategic development, enhancing their competitive position in the market.