The Intellectual Property Office is hosting the "Think IP" seminar at the Ramada Hotel and Resort, Hollingbourne, near Maidstone, on Monday.

It is open to businesses of all sizes, including sole traders and start-ups. Delegates will find out how to register their intellectual property (IP), including trade marks and patents, and how that could help them boost business performance.

Lawrence Smith-Higgins, the IPO’s head of business education and outreach, said: "All businesses use aspects of IP, from the names they trade under, to the processes they use, and it’s vital in the current climate that firms are making the most of what they own.

"This event will be invaluable to those wanting to innovate and develop their businesses, and make sure that their ideas and assets are properly registered and not at risk of being exploited by others."

There is no charge for the event, which starts at 9.30am and goes on until 12.30pm, with lunch provided.There will be an optional workshop in the afternoon and speakers will include Intellectual Property Office representatives, Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys and local entrepreneur Lynn Bolton

The IPO is part of the Government’s Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) department. It aims to encourage innovation and creativity and promote strong, competitive markets.

To register for the event, visit: www.ipo.gov.uk/whyuse/events/events-calendar/events-ipamaidstone.htm. A free IP Healthcheck is available online atwww.ipo.gov.uk/iphealthcheck.