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Why patenting matters

A patent helps you control the future of your idea. As an exclusive right to commercially exploit your invention, a patent can be a highly valuable asset, too.

What is a patent? 

A patent is an exclusive right to commercially exploit your invention (to make or sell it). It protects your invention from being used by others without your permission. This right is granted on the basis of a formal application.

Beyond protection, a patent can be a highly valuable asset. It strengthens the market potential of your invention and increases the likelihood that companies will invest. A licensed patent gives a company a unique competitive position, improving the chances that your research will reach the market.

Let’s talk.

Would you like to discuss your options?

Please contact us!
Knowledge Clip IP and Patenting

This clip is about various aspects of the patenting process.

Watch the knowledge clip

What you need to know about patenting

  • Patent before publishing

    The general rule is ‘patent before you publish’: once an invention is made public (for example, in a scientific article or a conference presentation) patenting may no longer be possible.

    However, publishing and applying for a patent are not mutually exclusive: in some cases, both processes can take place simultaneously. The business developers at VU IXA-GO are happy to advise you on the best way to approach this. Please get in touch.

  • Protecting your IP: the first step

    Applying for patent protection requires time and expertise. We guide you through the process, from submitting an Invention Disclosure Form to identifying potential partners. VU IXA-GO supports you through every step. 

    Once the patent has been filed, the business developer, together with you, actively identifies companies or organisations that may be interested in your invention. Throughout the process, IXA-GO works closely with you as the inventor. 

  • Ownership and Inventorship

    Under the Dutch Patent Act, universities and medical centres own the rights to inventions made by their employees. Their intellectual property regulations extend this to others working under their supervision, such as interns and externally funded PhD candidates. 

    At the same time, researchers’ inventorship is recognised: anyone who made an original and intellectual contribution is considered an inventor. When your patented knowledge is put to use, the resulting revenue is shared between you as the inventor, your faculty, and the university's valorisation fund, ensuring your contribution is recognised and rewarded. 

    Knowledge exploitation regulations VU

    The ‘Knowledge exploitation regulations VU’ scheme provides a legal framework for protecting and commercializing knowledge and intellectual property rights and participation by spin-off companies.


  • Reporting and protection your IP with VU IXA-GO

    According to institutional IP policies, any idea or invention with commercial potential must be reported to VU IXA-GO. IXA assesses whether protection is needed, for example through a patent, after which the knowledge can be commercialised via licensing to a company or a spin-off. 

    Please contact VU IXA-GO. 

  • VU Patent Fund

    The VU Patent Fund covers the costs of both filing and maintaining the patent. 

  • Open science & patents: striking the right balance

    Open science encourages sharing knowledge and developing research openly – but once published, an invention can no longer be patented. In areas like text and software, copyright and clear licensing (e.g., Creative Commons) are essential to protect your work while making it accessible. 

    Need guidance? Contact VU IXA-GO to find the right approach for your research.  

Intellectual Property: what it is and why it's important

Read more

Please contact VU IXA-GO for all your questions!

Do you have a question about patents or other ways to protect your knowledge?

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