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A breakthrough ingredient or production process may create headlines, but can it create a defensible business?
In this episode of the Protein Production Technology International podcast, Nick Bradley was joined by Kerry Rees and Andrew Tindall of HGF, alongside Gilbert Verschelling of The Protein Brewery, Tim Fronzek of Nosh.bio, and Casey Lippmeier of Checkerspot, to explore how alternative protein companies can build intellectual property strategies that support long-term commercial success.
The panel discussed why effective IP management extends far beyond filing patents, examining how founders can align protection strategies with business objectives, fundraising plans, partnerships, and commercialization roadmaps. The conversation explored the balance between patents and trade secrets, the risks of over-filing, and how companies can ensure their most valuable innovations remain protected as they scale.
The speakers also shared insights into what investors look for when assessing technology businesses, explaining why strong IP portfolios can strengthen a company's position but are rarely enough on their own. Market traction, execution capability, regulatory progress, and commercial readiness all play critical roles in building investor confidence.
From collaboration agreements and freedom-to-operate considerations to licensing strategies and enforcement, the discussion offered practical guidance for founders navigating one of the most important - and often misunderstood - aspects of building an alternative protein company.
A must-listen for founders, R&D leaders, investors, legal teams, and anyone seeking to transform innovation into a scalable and defensible business.
