Jason Hynes discusses CIPO’s proposed patent “red tape” reduction initiatives in The Logic

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is considering fast-tracking applications for AI, quantum, energy and critical mineral patents to increase investment in those sectors. Recently, Smart & Biggar Principal and IPIC President Jason Hynes sat down with The Logic to discuss this proposal and other initiatives aimed at reducing “red tape” and improving the patenting experience in Canada. 

A good current example of this is the Green Technologies Program, the current fast-track treatment offered by CIPO for greentech inventions intended to protect the environment. The quicker turnaround for applications in greentech has helped a few clients in that sector, Jason says.  

However, as the reporter notes, Smart & Biggar Principal Brigide Mattar and Associate Audrey Berteau prepared an article in 2024 showing that the greentech expedited application program was largely underused. 

The patent office has another proposal to encourage innovation by adopting a “provisional” patent system similar to that of the U.S. For example, academics who are about to give a lecture, or startups presenting a prototype at a trade show, could get an inexpensive preliminary patent filing for their inventions while they prepare their formal applications. As Jason explains, however, this seems to be a solution to a problem that doesn’t really exist.  

Read the full article and Jason’s commentary on The Logic’s website (account required): Ottawa mulls fast-tracking patents for AI, quantum and critical minerals