If you investigate any source of investment a standard question is whether you own the intellectual property, including from venture capital, small business loan, invoice factoring, co-development partnership or business acquisition.
Contrary to popular media hyperbole on the current software patent mess, many companies perform due dilligence IP investigations during product development or are just aware of intellectual property extant in their specific market technology, and do design around it to not infringe.
Probably your government has some type of research and development tax benefit programs. A patent or pending is quite convincing evidence to support these claims.
Lastly, lets parse your question. Is it worthwhile to do any design if you might not be able to afford to manufacture it?