The goal of Freedom to Operate (FTO) support is to help beneficiaries understand whether commercialisation of their product or technology could infringe existing patents or other IP rights, and how to steer development to minimise these risks. The service begins with an orientation workshop to align expectations, define the technology and target markets, and clarify the key FTO questions (e.g. risk profile, target jurisdictions, timelines). The core of the service is a structured, strategy-focused assessment of the relevant patent landscape and critical third-party rights, combined with practical guidance on how to integrate FTO checkpoints into the R&D and commercialisation roadmap. The service is delivered by in-house analysts/consultants in close cooperation with the client. The delivery team uses desk research, supported by tools such as PatSnap, TMview and Dealroom, and semi-structured sessions with the beneficiary to (i) identify potential IP conflicts and “red flag” patents in selected markets and (ii) explore options such as design-around, licensing, partnership, or market focus. Where relevant, the service can be expanded to include a focused trademark search and assessment in priority markets. As a result of this service, EIC beneficiaries receive a structured overview of key third-party IP, a high-level risk assessment for selected markets, and recommendations on how to adapt their product roadmap, IP strategy and business case to build a more defensible market position.