IP as the Hidden Value of Modern Business
Intellectual property (IP) represents rights to the results of creative activity and primarily includes trademarks, patents, designs, copyrights, trade secrets, and know-how. In the modern economy, IP is what differentiates companies from their competitors—from the Apple logo to Coca-Cola’s recipe or the technological know-how of AI chip manufacturers. The world’s most valuable brands prove that in the era of intangible assets, IP is often the most valuable asset a company owns.
In Slovakia, however, IP is still an underestimated topic. While globally it is a standard part of business and investment strategies, locally it is often addressed only retrospectively, which can lead to serious business problems or even jeopardize a company, its sale, or investment into it.
Think. Protect. Grow.
This is why the first business-focused IP conference, Protect & Grow 2025, was created. Its goal is to demonstrate that IP is a strategic business tool capable of creating significant value—if used correctly. Protect means safeguarding an idea at the right time and in the right way, while Grow reflects the ambition of subsequent growth built on solid IP protection.
Creativity Sells. IP Protects.
The fully booked conference program was built on an interdisciplinary perspective shared by experienced experts. Michal Pastier (GoBIGNAME) spoke about the creative dimension of brand building, emphasizing that a strong brand is not merely an aesthetic element but a strategic value-creation tool.
Practical insights into intellectual property protection and legal IP strategy were provided by Tatiana Brichtová, Zuzana Kulčárová, and Peter Kružliak (BRICHTA & PARTNERS), who highlighted that while a good story sells, robust IP protection gives it a solid foundation.
Particular attention was drawn to the presentation by UK patent expert Sam Giles (Meissner Bolte), who explained how even traditionally “unpatentable” assets—such as software—can be protected.
Investors Trust Those Who Understand IP
Investment and financing topics were addressed by Zuzana Kaparová (EIB), Daniel Gašpar (Crowdberry), and other experts, who emphasized that companies or startups without a properly secured IP portfolio and IP strategy struggle to attract capital today.
A panel discussion on international expansion—with Dominik Brichta, Michal Kardoš (Sapie), Tomáš Petrek (GoBIGNAME), and Peter Both (KLARSTEIN)—showed that entering foreign markets without legally secured brands or technologies can halt growth before it even begins.
The future of IP in the age of AI was explored by Rasťo Kulich (Google), Max W. Mosing (GEISTWERT), and renowned AI lecturer Igor Pogány (AI Advantage), who has over 400,000 YouTube followers.
IP as a Decisive Factor for the Winners of Tomorrow
IP protects innovation, builds value, and increases credibility. As David Ogilvy famously said: “A brand is the only thing that remains when your factory burns down.” Today, this is truer than ever. Those who understand the importance of IP today will be acquiring those who underestimated it in the years to come.
For companies aiming to succeed amid growing competition, rapid innovation, and expansion beyond Slovakia, IP cannot be an afterthought or mere formality. A well-designed IP strategy must be an integral part of business planning. Companies should view IP as an investment in future value, not as a one-time cost. It protects valuation, control over technology, and negotiating power when engaging with investors.
A professional approach also includes systematic competitor monitoring—IP is a living asset that evolves alongside the market. The future leaders will be those who recognize that IP is not a legal obligation but a business strategy. Those who build both brand and protection simultaneously create assets that outlive products, technologies, and markets—and become a true engine of growth.