PACIFICSTREAM

SUMMARY


Intellectual property (IP) is the essence of the creative industries. It refers to music, designs, software, and much more. Yet few new entrepreneurs and creators understand the concept of IP, or the associated rights which can be used to protect it (copyright, design right etc). IP, like any other type of property, has a value, which should be properly protected and exploited for the benefit of the creator. Creators without the necessary knowledge are vulnerable and unable to benefit fully from their creativity. They also risk accidentally using other people’s IP illegally.

This project aims to create a dynamic and innovative software application that creative industries entrepreneurs and creators can use to identify the IP in their business, and teach them how to protect and exploit it. It will be stimulating in order to engage the target group, and will feature general IP subjects (such as trade marks) as well those most closely related to the creative industries (such as copyright). Users will be shown how IP laws apply across the EU, providing them with the best possible chance to protect and exploit their creations. The application will initially be provided in three languages: English; Bulgarian; and Polish.



The impact of this project will be to ensure that creative industries entrepreneurs in the EU are more aware of the value of their creations, and the ways this intellectual property can be protected and exploited. In addition to helping to ensure business success, this knowledge will encourage entrepreneurs to trade and collaborate across the EU, as they are able to understand the protection available to them and the ways in which IP can be used to generate income. They will learn when it is wise to consult a legal specialist. The software can also play a significant role in countries with particularly low levels of IP knowledge and a history of infringement and piracy, by educating their entrepreneurs and encouraging adherence to IP laws.