Scheme for Facilitating Start-Ups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP)

Startups are companies that work on some unique ideas, but they might lack an evolved business model, financial assistance, or proper management to reach their ultimate business goal. While startups are emerging in the country, the government is also supporting the entrepreneurs in various ways to encourage the growth of their businesses.

One of the initiatives taken by the government is the Scheme for Facilitating Startups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP), which was introduced in 2016 with the aim of facilitating the protection of Intellectual Property by Startups. Under the scheme, the facilitators are impaneled by CGPDTM (“Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks”), to assist the Startups in IPR related services.

Who is eligible to apply under the “SIPP” Scheme?

• The business must be a Startup as per the Notification GSR 127(E) published in the Gazette of India dated 19th February 2019.
• The Certificate issued by DPIIT can be verified from the online Startup India portal.
• There is no requirement for the certificate from the Inter-Ministerial Board of Certification of an eligible business to the startups covered under this scheme.
• There is a requirement for self-declaration by the Startups, stating that they have not availed any funds under any other Government scheme for paying the facilitator/patent agent/trademark agent for making an application for Intellectual Property (IP).

What is the purpose of the "SIPP" Scheme?

The Scheme for Facilitating Startup Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) was introduced to:

• Impart awareness in regards to Intellectual Property Rights for Startups.
• Protect the innovative ideas of the Startups.
• Provide easy access to Intellectual Property services to Startups.

What are the benefits of the "SIPP" Scheme?

The following benefits can be provided by the “SIPP” scheme:

• Startups can apply for expedited examination of their Patent application.
• Startups can gain the assistance of facilitators and can easily file their applications. 
• The facilitator will receive a reimbursement of Rs. 10,000/- (maximum), for assisting the Startups in filing and prosecuting the patent application.

How are Facilitators appointed?

The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks (CGPDTM) appoints and regulates the functioning of the facilitators. The list of facilitators may be revised by CGPDTM. 

Where CGPDTM receives any complaint, it may remove the facilitator from the panel without giving prior notice.

Who can be the facilitator as per the "SIPP" Scheme?

• All Trademark Agents and Patent Agents are registered with CGPDTM.
• Any Advocate defined under the Advocates Act 1961 is entitled to practice law as per the Bar Council of India. Such Advocates should be actively involved in the filing and disposal of trademark applications.
• Government Department/Agency or Central Public Sector Undertaking (such as TIFAC, NRDC, BIRAC, MeitY, CSIR, etc.)

How Facilitators can assist the startups?

Facilitators shall be responsible for:

• Provide information and guidance on protecting and promoting IPRs to Startups.
• Provide assistance in filing/disposal of IP applications.
• Drafting and filing responses to examination reports and other queries by the IP office received from time to time.
• Attend hearings on behalf of Startups.
• Contesting opposition (if any)

What is the duration of the "SIPP” Scheme?

As per Notice No. CG/F /SIPP Scheme/2020-21 / 237 dated 30th April 2020, the duration of the scheme has been extended to the Government of India for three years with effect from 01st April 2020 to 31st March 2023.