Fall 2014 issue of Horizons

LIFE SCIENCES & TECHNOLOGY

∙ Product-patent (or Product-IP) matrix – An identification of what IP supports what products currently commercialized or in development to be commercialized. This should include IP that is owned outright as well as licensed technology A potential investor or acquirer will want assurances that your IP portfolio is strong and that you have taken adequate measures to protect the value of that IP. Ownership of IP assets and freedom-to-operate will be two critical considerations for any transaction involving a company with a heavy reliance upon IP. In addition, having a well documented and well mapped out IP portfolio and IP strategy can help assure potential counterparties that there is not considerable unforeseen risk, possibly help them identify value or

opportunities they may not have considered, and potentially bridge a valuation gap.

You may ask “Do I have an IP strategy?” and “Is IP due diligence part of my IP strategy?” If the answer is “No” to either of those questions, then you may benefit from adopting an IP due diligence process. The benefits of such a process will help you identify and mitigate risks surrounding your IP portfolio, maximize the benefits of your overall IP strategy (or help you develop one if it’s currently non-existent), and streamline an external IP due diligence process during an exit or other liquidity event. The more prepared your company is, the more success you will have in closing a deal and maximizing the seller’s proceeds.

RubinBrown’s Life Sciences & Technology Services Group RubinBrown has a dedicated Life Sciences and Technology Services Group specializing in serving life sciences and technology based companies.

Steve Hays, CPA — St. Louis Partner-In-Charge Life Sciences & Technology Services Group 314.290.3336 steve.hays@rubinbrown.com

Todd Pleimann, CPA — Kansas City Partner Life Sciences & Technology Services Group 913.499.4411 todd.pleimann@rubinbrown.com

Jason Mannello, CFA — St. Louis Manager & Vice Chair Life Sciences & Technology Services Group 314.290.3216 jason.mannello@rubinbrown.com

Rodney Rice, CPA — Denver Partner Life Sciences & Technology Services Group 303.952.1233 rodney.rice@rubinbrown.com

Felicia Malter, CPA — St. Louis Partner Life Sciences & Technology Services Group 314.290.3249 felicia.malter@rubinbrown.com

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