Trademark Registration: Figurative Mark vs Wordmark Explained π¨π€
Starting a business or creating a new brand in Estonia means protecting your name and logo. This is very important because it stops others from copying or using your brand without permission. The best way to do this is by registering a trademark.
When you apply for a trademark, you have to choose what type of protection you want. The two most common types are a wordmark and a figurative mark. This article explains the difference and helps you decide which is right for your business. Plus, we talk about the SME Fund 2025 that can help you with costs! 💼✨
What Is a Wordmark? 📝
A wordmark protects the name or words of your brand. It covers the text itself, without any special design, colors, or fonts. When you register a wordmark, you protect your brand name no matter how it is written.
For example, if your brand is called “GreenBite”, registering a wordmark means no one else can use that name for similar products or services, even if they write it differently.
A wordmark is good if you want to protect your brand name and keep the freedom to change the logo or design later.
What Is a Figurative Mark? 🎨
A figurative mark protects the design of your brand. This can include your logo, special fonts, colors, shapes, or pictures that make your brand unique.
For example, if “GreenBite” uses a green leaf symbol with a special font and colors, registering a figurative mark protects this exact logo design. No one else can copy that unique look.
Figurative marks are great if your logo is important for your brand’s identity and marketing.
What’s the Difference Between Wordmark and Figurative Mark? 🤔
The main difference is what you protect. A wordmark protects the name of your brand in any style. A figurative mark protects the visual design or logo.
You can also register both to protect your brand fully — the name and the design.
How to Register a Trademark in Estonia? 🇪🇪
To register, you apply to the Estonian Patent Office. First, you check if your trademark is new and does not copy someone else. Then, you submit your application for a wordmark, figurative mark, or both.
The Patent Office reviews your application to make sure everything is correct. After that, your trademark is published publicly so others can object if they think it is too similar to theirs.
If there are no objections, your trademark is registered, usually within a few months.
Costs and Duration 💰⏳
Registering a trademark costs money. Wordmarks are usually cheaper because they are simpler to examine. Figurative marks can cost more because the design needs closer review.
Your trademark lasts 10 years from the registration date. You can renew it forever by paying renewal fees.
SME Fund 2025: Support for Estonian Businesses 🚀
If you run a small or medium business in Estonia, the SME Fund 2025 is an amazing help. This fund gives financial support to cover expenses like trademark registration, marketing, business development, and more.
The fund helps reduce your costs so it’s easier to protect your brand and grow your business.
To qualify, you need to be a registered SME in Estonia with a clear business plan focused on growth.
Here is a simple checklist to apply for the SME Fund 2025:
1️⃣ You need to have an Estonian OU (private limited company) or another EU-registered company to be eligible – Haven’t yet company? Start company with Eesti Consulting.
2️⃣ You must have a bank account connected to your company.
3️⃣ Contact EESTICONSULTING.EE for expert help and advice OR check if proposed trademark exists in eSearch database or not yet.
4️⃣ We will prepare and apply for the SME Fund 2025 grant on your behalf.
5️⃣ If approved, you can lower your EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office) fees by up to 75%!
This support makes trademark registration and brand protection much more affordable and easier for your business.
Why Protect Your Brand? 🛡️
Registering a trademark protects you from copycats who want to use your name or logo. It helps keep your customers loyal and your business reputation safe.
A strong trademark shows that your brand is serious and trustworthy. It is one of the best investments for your company’s future.
How EESTICONSULTING.EE Can Help You 🤝
We guide you through the trademark registration process from start to finish. We help you decide between a wordmark and a figurative mark based on your brand’s needs.
We also help with searching for existing trademarks to avoid conflicts, preparing and submitting your application, and advising you on the SME Fund 2025 application so you can get financial support.
Protecting your brand is easier with professional help!
Start Protecting Your Brand Today! 📞✨
Don’t wait until someone else uses your name or logo. Contact EESTICONSULTING.EE now to get expert help with trademark registration and to learn how you can use the SME Fund 2025 for support.
Secure your brand and grow your business confidently in Estonia!