Following the strong response to our recent article on the 2023 filing figures, we would now like to take a look at the long-term development of intellectual property activity in Velbert. How has Velbert’s filing activity evolved over the past decade?
Patents and Utility Models Over Time – Velbert Remains Above Average read more
The EU funding program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to support intellectual property rights (you can find more information here) was in particularly high demand. The funds available for it were therefore quickly exhausted.
However, funds are now once again available for the application of intellectual property rights (patents, designs, and trademarks), as not all approved grants were actually used.
Our tip: Submit your application as early as possible, as the funds tend to run out quickly – last time, they were exhausted within just a few days.
As a law firm specializing in intellectual property rights, we have been supporting companies affected by product and trademark piracy for decades. Counterfeits and imitations are no longer a marginal issue – they cause billions in losses every year, weaken innovation, and, in the worst cases, can even endanger consumers.
A patent gives inventors the opportunity to protect their ideas legally and to make use of them commercially. But how does a European patent application actually work? At first glance, the process may seem complex – our overview will help to shed some light.
The Path to a European Patent – Step by Step read more
Our patent law firm has been rooted in Velbert with its headquarters since 1959. This close connection to the city was the occasion for us to examine more closely the innovative power of the companies based here.
In 2023, 99 patents and utility models were filed with the DPMA in Velbert, mainly by the major automotive suppliers Huf and WITTE.
Innovative Power in Velbert – Patent and Utility Model Applications 2023 at a Glance read more
The European Patent Office (EPO) is introducing a significant innovation for patent applicants: As of October 1, 2025, drawings in European patent applications may also be submitted in color – a major step towards a more modern and flexible patent application process.
EPO Allows Color Drawings from October 2025 read more
Do you have an idea and want to know how to protect it? We now offer a free 30-minute online initial consultation with one of our experienced patent attorneys. In a personal conversation, we will address your initial questions regarding patent, utility model, trademark, or design protection and show you possible ways to strategically safeguard your innovation – completely non-binding and conveniently online. 👉 Book your appointment now: https://calendly.com/wmw-patent-info/introductory-consultation-30-minutes
Free Online Initial Consultation with a Patent Attorney – Book Now! read more
Das EU-Förderprogramm für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen (KMU) zur Unterstützung von Schutzrechten (weitere Informationen finden Sie hier) war bei Patentanmeldungen Anfang des Jahres besonders stark nachgefragt. Die dafür verfügbaren Mittel waren daher schnell ausgeschöpft. Nun stehen jedoch wieder Mittel für Patentanmeldungen zur Verfügung, da nicht alle bewilligten Förderungen tatsächlich genutzt wurden. Laut dem Deutschen Patent- und Markenamt (DPMA) können KMU ab dem 2. Juni 2025 wieder Anträge auf Zuschüsse zu
EU SME Fund: Grants for Patent Applications Available Again from June 2, 2025 read more
On January 9, 2025 (Case No. 2 U 1/24), the Higher Regional Court of Düsseldorf dismissed the appeal of a former independent contractor against a judgment of the Regional Court of Düsseldorf. The plaintiff, a mechanical engineer with many years of experience in the field of stud welding technology, demanded the transfer of several patents as well as claims for information and damages. He argued that the defendant company had filed patents based on his inventions without his consent, even though he had worked as a freelancer and therefore retained the rights [...]
Independent Inventor – Implied Agreement on the Transfer of Invention Rights read more
The SME fund "Ideas Powered for Business" was set up on the initiative of the European Commission. The SME Fund provides financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in the European Union (EU) for the protection of their intellectual property rights.
EU FUNDING FOR THE APPLICATION OF PATENTS, TRADEMARKS AND DESIGNS read more
