10+1 good reasons why you should consider a patent today
In a series of blog posts, Marco Coolen gives an insight into his work as a Dutch and European patent attorney at AOMB.
Published on August 24, 2025
Marco, a patent attorney at AOMB since 2013, shares his expertise on IO+ about patents—how they work, why they matter, and when they lose their value.
Sooner or later, many entrepreneurs ask themselves: “Should I patent my invention?” And often they put off making that decision. Understandable; a patent costs money, time, and attention. But there are more than enough good reasons why you should take that step.
Here they are.
Marco Coolen, photo © Bart van Overbeeke
1. No price discussions, just exclusive rights
If you are the only one who can make your invention, you are in a strong position. You don't have to engage in price wars with competitors. You offer something unique, and customers simply have no alternative.
2. Prevent others from running off with it
Without a patent, a competitor can copy, improve, or even patent your invention themselves. With a patent, you turn the tables: you set the rules.
3. Investors like certainty
A strong patent makes your company more attractive to investors. They see that you have built up protection and that their capital is safe from copycats.
4. Without a patent, there is nothing to license
Do you want to market your innovation through licenses? Then you first need a solid patent. Otherwise, there is simply nothing to license.
5. Selling your company? A patent comes with it
In company takeovers, the better your protected position, the higher your valuation. Patents are immediately counted as valuable assets on the balance sheet.
The World of Patents
Dutch and European patent attorney Marco Coolen (AOMB) provides us with a deeper understanding of the world of patents. How do they work, why are they essential, but also: when do they lose their usefulness?
View The World of Patents6. A negotiating position when you are small
Are you still small, but want access to other people's patents? With your own patent, you have something to negotiate with. This often happens in cross-licensing between large and small players.
7. You have the technology, they have the market
Sometimes you have the solution, but your company lacks scale or access to markets. With a patent, you can attract strong partners who want to roll out your invention in their market.
8. Your product is difficult to keep secret
Some innovations are simply impossible to keep secret. For example, because the product appears openly on the market. In that case, a patent is the best protection.
9. Arrange subsidies or tax benefits
Many R&D subsidies and tax schemes require demonstrable innovation. A patent is often the proof that you are actually innovating.
10. Get the most out of it
Why settle for a limited market position when you can get the most out of your innovation with a patent? You've already made the invention, now it's time to arrange protection.
Bonus reason: 11. Avoid regret
The biggest reason not to wait? Because you'll be really disappointed if your competitor applies for the patent tomorrow and you're left empty-handed. Then it's simply too late.
A patent is more than just legal protection. It is a tool for growth, value creation, and strategy. Whether you want to invest, sell, collaborate, or scale up, a patent puts you in a stronger position.
So don't put off that decision indefinitely. Find out today what you can protect. Because if it's really valuable, you want to get the most out of it.