TIPO expands accelerated patent examination mechanism to help startups secure patent protection faster

　On June 16, 2026, TIPO announced the further expansion of the accelerated patent examination mechanism for startups, launching a series of supporting measures under the theme, “Enhancing the Competitiveness of Startup Industries, Accelerating Patent Portfolios, TIPO supports Startups”, for the purpose of helping startup companies obtain patent protection promptly and reinforcing technological protection and also elevating fundraising capabilities.  

　According to TIPO, there has been a comprehensive support system well established for startup companies through such initiatives as the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, the Positive Patent Examination Pilot Program for Startup Companies, and the Asia Silicon Valley Development Plan.  As part of these efforts, TIPO has formed a series of measures to expedite patent examination helping startup companies quickly turn their technologies into valuable patented assets and further reduce infringement risks.  TIPO has also developed the “Three Core Strategies for Startup Patent Portfolios”.  

1.  Positive Patent Examination Pilot Program for Startup Companies

Since 2025, the scope of eligibility of this program has been expanded to include the companies that (a) have received national innovation awards within the previous two years, and (b) have received guidance from organizations commissioned by TIPO under the technology development program.  Under this program, examiners proactively conduct interviews with applicants and provide recommendations for revisions.  In 2025, the average disposal pendency was only 65.8 days, with an approval rate exceeding 93%.  According to TIPO’s statistics, this program has provided substantial support to startup companies, with 97 companies benefited to receive assistance and guidance to date.  

2.  Accelerated Examination Program (AEP):  

This program is available when the corresponding foreign application has been granted, when early examination is necessary for commercial exploitation, or when an invention relates to green technologies.  Under this program, applicants may generally receive examination results in about two months.  This program assists startup companies in seizing opportunities in international markets and the growing ESG economy.  

3.  Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) and TW-Support Using the PPH Agreement (TW-SUPA):  

TIPO has establish PPH collaboration with the patent offices in eight countries, including the U.S.A., Japan, and South Korea.  Under this mechanism, startup companies are able to accelerate corresponding patent applications in major overseas markets after having obtained patents in Taiwan.   

　TIPO points out that the strong patent portfolios have translated into substantial fundraising capabilities.  According to the latest statistics, startup companies leveraging the Positive Patent Examination Pilot Program have secured 39 investment cases, with total fundraising of USD298 million (approximately TWD9 billion), primarily through Seed Round and Series A Round, which demonstrates that “patent strength fuels fundraising success”.  

　In order to help startup companies develop patent portfolios, TIPO provides technical intelligence support through patent trend reports, compilations of cases, and the Standard-Essential Patent (SEP) Information Platform, covering key industries, such as, artificial intelligence (AI), net-zero technologies, semiconductors, and smart aging technologies.  In addition, TIPO also introduces the “Accelerated Examination Program for Startups”, which offers integrated support ranging from prior-art searches and intellectual property consultation to investor matchmaking.  The project is directly linked with the Positive Patent Examination Pilot Program, helping startup companies reduce filing risks while connecting with potential investors even before patent rights are granted.  

　TIPO stated that it will continue to serve as a catalyst for startup innovation, helping transform Taiwan’s technologies into global competitive advantages more rapidly.  Startup companies are encouraged to make full use of the available resources to accelerate their patent strategies and gain an early advantage in international markets.  (Released 2026.06.16)
/CCS