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Frequently asked questions

How do I file a trademark?

You can register your trademark with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office:

The IP roadmap for trademarks provides an overview of the trademark registration process:

How can I get grants or financing for my business?

Get a tailored list of government programs that offer financing, grants, tax credits, government-backed loans, wage subsidies and expert advice:

How do I reset my password for My ISED Account?

For accounts that use a GCKey username and password, you can use the 'Forgot your Password?' option on the Welcome to GCKey Sign In page.

For accounts that use a Sign-In Partner username and password, contact your Sign-In Partner for assistance.

How do I get a radio licence?

To get a radio licence, contact your regional Spectrum Management office:

How do I file a patent?

You can patent your invention if it meets three basic criteria:

  1. It is novel – the first of its kind in the world.
  2. It is useful – it works and is functional and operational.
  3. It shows inventive ingenuity – it is a new improvement to an existing invention that wouldn't be obvious to someone skilled in that field.

A patent can only be granted for the physical embodiment of an idea (for example, the description of a plausible door lock) or for a process that produces something tangible. You cannot patent a scientific principle, an abstract theory or a mathematical formula.

For more information:

How do I protect my copyright?

A copyright provides protection for original literary, musical, dramatic or artistic works. By securing a copyright, you have the right to prevent others from reproducing your work. Copyright laws also apply to performances, sound recordings and communication signals.

For more information:

How do I get information on labelling and packaging?

Businesses that want to ensure their product labels comply with all the requirements should refer to the Competition Bureau:

For more information:

The province of Quebec has additional requirements concerning the use of the French language on all products marketed within its jurisdiction. Get information on these requirements at:

Office québécois de la langue française (in French only)
125 Sherbrooke Street West
Montréal, Quebec H2X 1X4
Telephone: toll free at 1-800-873-6202 or 514-873-6565

How do I incorporate my business at the federal level?

In order to incorporate at the federal level, you will have to file articles of incorporation.

Articles of incorporation can be filed at:

How can I file a complaint against a company?

For information on the complaint processes for different consumer issues, go to: