Securing funding remains one of the biggest challenges for startups and SMEs, especially in their early stages. In an increasingly competitive market, where ideas are abundant but resources are limited, standing out to investors does not depend solely on the product or service. The company’s ability to demonstrate that its project is solid, distinctive and sustainable over time also plays a major role.
In this context, intangible assets take on a key role. Among them, the brand and the patent stand out as two strategic tools that can make all the difference.
A joint study by the EUIPO and the EPO puts figures to this reality: European startups that have a registered trademark and patent in their early stages are up to 10.2 times more likely to secure funding than those that do not protect these assets.
The figure is compelling, but it requires interpretation. It is not about registering a trademark in isolation or fulfilling an administrative formality. What investors truly value is the combination of two factors: on one hand, a clear and protected identity and, on the other, an innovation that brings real and distinctive value to the market.
A brand is much more than a name or a logo. It is the way a company presents itself, differentiates itself and positions itself. Registering it means ensuring that this identity is unique and exclusive, preventing third parties from using it or creating confusion in the market.
The patent, for its part, represents a step further. It means protecting a technical solution, a proprietary development or an innovative improvement. For investors, this translates into a clear competitive advantage: they perceive that there is knowledge behind it that is not easily replicable and that can generate value in the medium and long term.
When a startup or company combines both elements, its project gains credibility. It is no longer perceived merely as a good idea, but as a structured proposal with defined assets and a clearer growth strategy. This reduces uncertainty, one of the factors that most conditions investment decisions.
For SMEs, the lesson is equally relevant. Although not all of them can or should apply for patents, it is essential to analyse which assets they have and which ones they can protect. In many cases, the brand will be the main element to safeguard. In others, there may be an innovation eligible for protection that is not being taken advantage of.
Furthermore, protecting innovation does not only have an impact on access to funding. It also makes it possible to strengthen market position, avoid legal disputes, improve the company’s reputation and increase its overall value. These are decisions that, taken in time, can make a significant difference in the evolution of the business.
The data is clear: startups that protect their brand and their innovation are more attractive to investors and have more options to access funding in their early stages.
In a business environment where every decision counts, understanding the value of intangible assets is not just a competitive advantage. It is a key piece in building stronger, more reliable projects with greater growth potential.
Taking the next step is easier with specialist support. The Galician Economic Office accompanies you with personalised advice and free resources to help your business grow.
