You've worked hard to build your business, but are you protecting what you've created?

From business names and brands to designs, ideas, contracts and other intellectual property, understanding what should be protected and when to seek specialist advice can help businesses avoid expensive problems later.

This Business Growth Dorset Breakfast will explore some of the legal and intellectual property considerations that businesses may encounter as they start, develop and grow. We'll look at common risks, practical considerations and some of the steps businesses can take to help protect their assets and support future growth.

What we will explore

• Legal considerations for growing businesses
• Common risks that SMEs can encounter as they develop
• The role of contracts, terms and conditions, and business agreements
• Understanding intellectual property and why it matters
• The differences between trademarks, copyright, design rights and patents
• Protecting your business, brand and ideas
• Common mistakes and misunderstandings to avoid
• Practical steps businesses can take to strengthen their foundations

There will also be time to ask questions, meet other local businesses and talk to the Business Growth Dorset team over light refreshments.

Wednesday 24 February 2027
9:00am to 11:00am
Hinton Workspace, The Building Yard, Hinton St Mary, STURMINSTER NEWTON, DT10 1NA

What to expect

09:00 - 09:30 Light refreshments and networking
09:30 - 09:45 Welcome and Business Growth Dorset update
09:45 - 10:30 Guest speakers and presentations
10:30 - 11:00 Networking and close

Getting there

By car: Free parking is available on site for all attendees. Please use the large car park at the rear of the building, which provides direct access to the event space.

By public transport: Bus services serve Hinton St Mary, with connections to nearby towns including Sturminster Newton and Gillingham. We recommend checking local timetables before travelling.

Accessibility

If you require wheelchair access, please use the front entrance, where ramps are available. Accessible toilet facilities are available on the ground floor.
If you have any accessibility requirements or would like to discuss arrangements before booking, please contact us.

This event is part of the fully funded Business Growth Dorset Breakfast Series, supporting Dorset businesses with expert insights, practical guidance and valuable networking opportunities.

There will be photographs and video taken at this event which may be used to publicise the event and the work of Business Growth Dorset. To find out more about how we use and store data please see our Privacy Notice.