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Software patents harm SMEs
During the EU lobbying, representatives of small and medium enterprises were against software patents.
SMEs can't afford to get patents.
The patent grant process is too slow. SMEs have to get to profitability quickly to survive.
SMEs can't afford to defend themselves against patent litigation, even if they're sure the patent is invalid.
Statements
Studies
- Rethinking the European ICT agenda "...most small enterprises are strongly opposed."
- Innovation in Germany, Windows of opportunity "...SMEs are crucial providers of pathbreaking innovations, but would be most adversely affected by patentability...."
