What are the benefits for startups?
A startup can now select from a list of about 280 facilitators listed on the website www.ipindia.nic.in for the purpose of getting advise on patent registration.
In the event a startup is unable to decide on the right facilitator, it can seek assistance from head of office of the appropriate Patent Office (as per jurisdiction) which will suggest 3 facilitators for the startup to choose from.
While the fee for the patent application and other statutory fees payable will be borne by the start-up, the fees for the facilitator shall be borne by the Government.
What is the role of a facilitator?
A facilitator will assist the startup with all steps required for filing a patent application including provide responses to any query raised by a Patent Office, attend hearings, etc. The facilitator will file all required documents to the Patent Office on time on behalf of the startup.