Registering intellectual property is something many starting entrepreneurs forget about or misunderstand. Often, they only knock on our door when it’s too late: someone else has already claimed the same company name. It's why at BOIP we want to increase awareness among entrepreneurs of the importance of intellectual property. With the launch of the ‘personal to-do list: starting a business’ we are taking a new step forward, together with our governmental partners.
What is the ‘personal to-do list’?
The ‘personal to-do list’ is a complete guide that sets out the steps entrepreneurs have to take in order to start their business successfully and according to the rules. BOIP has collaborated on its development and jointly ensured that the topic of intellectual property is included in the list. The list is available to all starting entrepreneurs in the Netherlands through the Ondernemersplein (Entrepreneurs’ Plaza) among others, but also through their contact with the Chamber of Commerce, for example. This will help us, and our cooperating partners make sure the topic does not escape the attention of entrepreneurs.
How does the ‘personal to-do list’ work?
The to-do list is available from the Ondernemersplein. Using answers to questions about the entrepreneur’s situation and his or her plans, a tailored checklist is generated. This list gives a clear overview of action to be taken and specific points to focus on – from registering at the Chamber of Commerce to tax issues, permits and relevant laws and regulations. It therefore also includes organising protection for your intellectual property, such as registering your trademark, as well as searching for trademarks that already exist, so you don’t infringe on the rights of others.
How did the ‘personal to-do list’ come about?
The to-do list has been developed in collaboration with various public sector organisations, including the Netherlands Tax Administration, the Chamber of Commerce, the Ondernemersplein, the Netherlands Patent Office, the Netherlands Employee Insurance Agency (UWV), the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG), the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and BOIP, within the framework of the ‘Life events’ programme ‘I want to start a business’, implemented on behalf of the Netherlands Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Together these organisations ensure entrepreneurs start properly.
