Title: Patenting behaviour by SMEs

Authors: Enno Masurel

Addresses: Economic and Social Institute, Free University, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Abstract: This paper discusses the patenting behaviour of SMEs. Our focal question is to what extent do they use patents and what are the main reasons for not using patents? A sketch is given of the Dutch patenting landscape. It appears that the SMEs involved rarely use patents, mainly due to a limited number of innovations. Furthermore, it appeared that many SMEs are uncertain about the patentability of their innovations. They also have too little time, perceive the costs as being too high and feel the patenting procedures to be unclear. Finally, it should be noted that SMEs rarely collaborate in obtaining patents, although collaboration (as a part of knowledge management) is a good way to tackle their problems concerning patents.

Keywords: SMEs; entrepreneurship; innovations; patents; knowledge protection; architects.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2002.000503

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2002 Vol.2 No.6, pp.574-583

Published online: 18 Jul 2003 *

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