IPIC President Update: Looking Ahead to 2025

As we usher in the New Year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible community we have built together at the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada (IPIC). 2024 was a year of significant achievements and challenges. It was also a year in which we suffered great losses, of leaders within our profession including Past Presidents Roger Hughes and most recently, and far too soon, Peter Wilcox. As we step into 2025, I am writing to share our plans and initiatives that will continue to support and elevate our members in the ever-evolving landscape of intellectual property.

One of our key priorities has been maintaining a robust dialogue with the College of Patent Agents and Trademark Agents. We are closely monitoring CPATA's financial situation, with the hope of revisiting licensee fees and exploring the possibility of a reduction in the near term. Additionally, we are actively participating in CPATA's efforts to develop pathways into the profession and are eager to assist in shaping continuing professional development requirements. Our commitment to ensuring that IPIC members have the best insurance policy possible remains steadfast, as we adapt to the evolving needs of our profession.

Our collaboration with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office remains strong as we stay abreast of developments that impact our day-to-day practice. We receive regular updates on CIPO's efforts to reduce the backlog of trademark applications and improve trademark quality. Our Patent Practice Committee engages regularly with CIPO to assist with the rollout of the Next Generation Patent system, ensuring that our members are well-informed and equipped to manage client expectations. We understand the concerns clients may have about their Canadian patent and trademark applications, and we are dedicated to empowering our members with the best information to put clients at ease.

Last year, IPIC leadership worked tirelessly to make the fixing of agent-client privilege a priority for the Canadian government. We received wide support from government officials in a challenging political environment. Past President Paula Clancy secured support of sister organizations around the world to assist in IPIC’s lobbying efforts. This election year, we will continue to push for legislative change that ensures a robust privilege protecting patent and trademark agent communications with their clients.

IPIC continues to advocate in all forums to ensure our members are well-positioned to take advantage of intellectual property strategy initiatives across the country. We administer the IP Assist funding program, supporting the development of IP strategies, and communicate with CIPO and federal and provincial IP organizations to seize opportunities for IP strategy work. Our educational modules for IP strategy, designed for both IP professionals and businesses, are a testament to our commitment to elevating IP professionals within the Canadian IP ecosystem. In 2025, we will enhance our IP-related marketing initiatives to highlight the quality provided by well-trained IP professionals.

A world-class IP community is a healthy one, and IPIC is dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being among our members. In 2025, we will enhance our initiatives to include the development of well-being through community, providing forums for professionals to share experiences and support each other. We believe that a healthy community is a thriving community, and we are committed to fostering an environment where our members can flourish both personally and professionally.

Mark your calendars for our 2025 Annual Conference in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan! Our Conference Committee is working tirelessly to put together an event that addresses the challenges facing IP professionals today. This conference is the one time our community comes together each year, and it promises to be an invaluable opportunity for learning, networking, and camaraderie. Trust me, you won't want to miss it!
 

As we embark on this new year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your dedication, passion, and contributions to the IPIC community. Together, we will continue to shape a government policy and business environment that encourages the development, use, and value of intellectual property in Canada.