Patent 102: Building and Protecting IP for Life Science Startups

Intellectual property is one of the most valuable assets for an early-stage company—but knowing how to protect and leverage it effectively is critical.

Join us for Patent 102, an informative session designed for early-stage companies, with a particular focus on the life sciences sector. This presentation will explore key intellectual property considerations that can impact growth, investment readiness, and long-term success.

Topics will include:

• Common IP pitfalls and how to avoid them
• Patents versus trade secrets: understanding the differences
• Building and managing a patent portfolio to maximize company valuation
• Strategic IP considerations for startups and growing companies
• Real-world case studies from Canadian companies

Speaker: Steven Lam, Patent Agent, ROBIC

Steven Lam is the Practice Group Leader of ROBIC's Chemistry and Life Sciences (ChemLife) Patent Group. With more than 20 years of experience as a patent professional and a background in biochemistry, he helps Canadian and international clients protect, manage, and commercialize intellectual property.

Steven specializes in patent drafting and prosecution in Canada, the United States, and internationally, and advises on patentability, validity, infringement, and freedom-to-operate matters. He works with companies of all sizes, particularly in biotechnology and life sciences, including pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, genome editing, immunology, and agricultural biotechnology.

📅 Thursday, July 16
🕑 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Atlantic

In-person (Halifax) & Virtual