UK IP Audit Scheme

Government-backed audits to help your business identify, protect and maximise the value of its intellectual property.

Unlock funding to protect your ideas with a UK IP audit

Unlock government funding to assess and protect your intellectual property (IP)

Through the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), eligible businesses can receive funding for a comprehensive IP audit – helping you understand, secure and make the most of your valuable ideas and innovations.

What is an IP audit?

An IP audit is a structured review of your business’ intellectual property, covering what you own, how it’s protected, and any potential risks or opportunities. It’s the first step in building a stronger, more resilient commercial strategy around your brand, technology or product development.

Why does IP matter?

We regularly see innovative businesses operating without the right IP protections in place. That can mean missed commercial opportunities or exposure to legal and reputational risk. A well-executed IP audit can safeguard assets, support growth and improve investor confidence.

What does the scheme offer?

Under the UKIPO scheme, eligible businesses receive up to £2,250 (inc. VAT) in funding towards the cost of an IP audit. Your business contributes at least £750 (inc. VAT). You’ll get:

  • An initial consultation with one of our IP specialists
  • A tailored written report assessing your IP assets, protections and gaps
  • A follow-up call to talk through the findings and next steps

At Tees, our advice is tailored to your business goals and industry sector.

The team at Tees is exceptional when it comes to corporate and commercial. Their tenacity and understanding of our business were excellent, as well as their understanding of a commercial deal that was not always straightforward.

Who is eligible?

You could qualify if your business is classed as micro, small or medium-sized under UK Government definitions:

Size          Max. turnover     Max. balance sheet     Max. headcount

Micro       £632,000            £316,000                       10

Small        £10.2m                £5.1m                             50

Medium    £36m                  £18m                             250

You must also be registered with one of the UK’s regional business development agencies—listed below—and you don’t need to already hold any registered IP to apply.

How to apply

To start the process, contact your regional partner:

  1. Scottish Enterprise 
  2. Highlands and Islands — General Enquiries
  3. South of Scotland — South of Scotland Enterprise

If you’re approved – or not
If your application is successful, Tees can deliver your IP audit as your nominated IP professional. We’ll provide clear, commercially focused insights to help you protect and grow your IP assets.

If you’re not eligible or funding is unavailable, we can still help. We offer bespoke IP reviews to give you practical recommendations on improving protection and unlocking commercial value.

We're here to help

To learn more about IP audits or to book your consultation, get in touch with Elliot Stafford.

We have offices across Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire, but we can help you wherever you are in England and Wales

The financial services provided on this page are by Tees Financial Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Our legal services are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

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