On 15 January 2025, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) opened applications for WIPO Global Awards.
Awards are awarded to excellent start-ups and SMEs using intellectual property; (IV) to foster economic growth and social impact. The competition is intended for companies located in at least one of the WIPO Member States and is open until 31 March 2025.
Who can apply?
You can apply start-ups (start-ups including spinouts from universities), small and medium-sized enterprises. Applications are welcome from companies from all sectors – technology, fashion, health, agriculture, design, etc. – that use any form of IP (copyright, trademarks, patents and geographical indications) to improve their performance and overall development.
One of the most important conditions for applying for the competition in the case of SMEs is that they should be the holder of one registered/protected IP right, and in the case of start-ups and university spinout companies that they must have at least one application for registration/protection of one intellectual property right and/or they are the holder of at least one registered/protected intellectual property right.
What are the benefits for the winners of the award?
- Global recognition: Invitation to the award ceremony during the WIPO Assembly in Geneva, July 2025.
- Tailored mentoring: Personalised mentoring to improve IV strategies, achieve new business goals and access funding opportunities. The aim is more than just the prize itself, and it refers to the empowerment and development of the winners of the prize.
- Special acknowledgments: This year, the award for the best female entrepreneur and the best young entrepreneur will also be presented.
More information, including the application process, can be found on the WIPO Global Awards.
