Entrepreneurs with a great idea and good little startup business often find themselves caught between wanting to promote their business through the media and fear that it might lead to competition.

Wendy Riel, a partner at Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP (FMC) whose practice specializes in trademark law, suggests filing a patent and trademark application as soon as possible to minimize the risk of potential competitors. "Even if you haven't yet started using your trademark you can still file an application and obtain protection," she says.

As with most startups, money can be an issue. Unnecessary legal costs could also be avoided by doing some of the leg work yourself. Wendy recommends simply doing a basic internet search.

For further information, please read Jameson Berkow's National Post article, Founded on Passion, July 6, 2010.

Please note that this article, also appearing under the title of Passion is vital for new entrepreneurs, was published in the Edmonton Journal, Victoria Times Colonist, Regina Leader-Post, Saskatoon Star Phoenix, Vancouver Sun, Montreal Gazette, Calgary Herald and Ottawa Citizen.