The IP Matters donation supports Danish startups working with sustainable innovation by offering selected companies expert IP consulting valued at DKK 50,000. The purpose is to help startups secure their intellectual property at an early stage so they can grow and strengthen the impact of their solutions.
Without the right IP protection, innovative solutions may be copied or used by others. For startups, this can make it harder to attract investment, build a strong market position, and realise the value of their innovation.
Intellectual property rights are essential for any startup. While IP consulting cannot save the world, it provides entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to protect their innovative ideas and responsible solutions. Many underestimate how easily an idea can be copied if not protected. At the same time, companies should be aware of the commercial and strategic opportunities that a well-developed IP strategy can provide.
Finn Strøm Madsen, CEO at Plougmann Vingtoft
IP as a foundation for investment
For many startups, IP can seem complex and easy to postpone when time and resources are limited. However, protecting patents, trademarks, and designs at an early stage can make a significant difference when a company is looking to grow and attract investment. Strong IP rights help document ownership of an innovation and can provide both investors and business partners with greater confidence in the company and its future potential.
Supporting startups through strong IP protection
Since 2019, Plougmann Vingtoft has supported 17 Danish startups through IP Matters. Each year, we donate expert IP consulting valued at DKK 50,000 to startups that we consider able to contribute to one or more of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Last year, Anorit Medical ApS, Zostera-Marina ApS, and Biopulp+ ApS received the IP Matters donation. This year marks the eighth round of the programme, and applications are open to startups that would like to strengthen their work with intellectual property.
Apply before August 31, 2026
We are accepting applications from Danish startups that fit the following profile:
- Danish startup
- Received funding of at least DKK 250,000 (equity or loan)
- Product/solution with direct impact on one or more of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals
NB: We assess that our expertise is most likely to match solutions within the following global goals; however, all applications are evaluated:
- #3: Good Health and Well-Being
- #7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- #9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- #12: Responsible Production and Consumption
- #14: Life Below Water
Applications can be submitted via the form below. Learn more about IP Matters and past recipients here.