There are several reasons why startups may avoid investing in proper intellectual property (IP) protection:

1. Cost: Obtaining and maintaining IP protection can be expensive, especially for startups with limited resources. The costs can include filing fees, legal fees, and ongoing maintenance fees for patents and trademarks. Some startups may not have the budget to invest in IP protection, or they may choose to allocate their resources to other areas of their business.

2. Time: Obtaining and maintaining IP protection can also be time-consuming, especially for start-ups that are focused on developing and launching their products or services. The process of obtaining a patent or trademark can take months up to several years, and startups may not have the time or resources to devote to the process.

3. Priorities: Startups may prioritize other areas of their business over IP protection, especially in the early stages of their development. They may be focused on developing their product or service, building their customer base, and securing funding, and may view IP protection as a lower priority.

4. Misconceptions: Some startups may not fully understand the importance of IP protection or the risks of not protecting their IP. They may believe that they can rely on other forms of legal protection, such as contracts or trade secrets, or they may not realize the potential value of their IP assets.

Overall, there are several reasons why startups may avoid investing in proper IP protection. However, it's important for startups to carefully consider the risks and benefits of IP protection and to seek legal advice if necessary. In many cases, investing in IP protection can provide valuable long-term benefits for startups and help to support their growth and success.

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