WIPO IP Management Clinic for SMEs and Start-Ups in the Arab Region 2024.

September 18, 2024Last Updated: September 18, 2024

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is excited to announce the launch of its latest edition of the IP Management Clinic (IPMC), specifically designed for SMEs and Startups in the Arab region. Organized in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UN-ESCWA), this program is aimed at supporting cross-sector SMEs and Startups transitioning into or already operating within digital marketplaces by helping them navigate the IP challenges unique to online environments.

WIPO IP Management Clinic for SMEs and Start-Ups in the Arab Region 2024.

The WIPO IP Management Clinic for SMEs and Start-Ups in the Arab Region is a specialized program organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in leveraging intellectual property (IP) for business growth. This initiative is tailored to the unique needs of entrepreneurs and businesses in the Arab region, where awareness and strategic use of IP can significantly enhance innovation and competitiveness.

The program offers hands-on guidance in IP management, helping participants identify, protect, and commercialize their intellectual property assets, such as trademarks, patents, designs, and copyrights. The clinic covers a range of essential topics, including IP strategy, licensing, patent filing, and IP valuation, ensuring that SMEs and start-ups have the tools to maximize the value of their intellectual assets. It also aims to promote a better understanding of how IP can be integrated into overall business strategies to create market advantages and attract investment.

Through this clinic, WIPO provides expert mentorship and support from IP professionals, allowing participants to receive tailored advice specific to their industry and business goals. By focusing on practical, real-world applications, the program helps SMEs and start-ups navigate the complexities of IP laws and systems, both locally and internationally.

The WIPO IP Management Clinic plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Arab region by empowering businesses to capitalize on their intellectual property. It equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to protect their innovations, grow their businesses, and compete in the global marketplace. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to boost economic development and innovation ecosystems in the region.

Eligibility Criteria For The WIPO IP Management Clinic for SMEs and Start-Ups in the Arab Region:

Must be an SME or Startup (less than €50 million in turnover, fewer than 250 employees)
Must be based in an Arab country
Must own a commercialized product or service, potentially or already protected by IP rights
Must operate within digital marketplaces
Must have an entrepreneurial team of at least two people
The team must have a good command of English

Selection Criteria

A total of 30 companies will be selected to participate, receiving tailored support to enhance their IP management capabilities, particularly in an online setting.
Participants will also receive guidance on formulating effective IP strategies that align with their business plans and intangible assets, ensuring they can protect and monetize their products in global markets.

Benefits

Selected companies will receive an exclusive invitation to attend the Arab SMEs Summit 2024 in Qatar, which will serve as the program’s official launch.
This will be followed by a four-month virtual program beginning in January 2025, which includes a combination of one-on-one mentorship from IP and business experts, training opportunities, and ongoing access to valuable WIPO resources.

To be considered for selection, applicants must complete the preliminary virtual training scheduled in September and October 2024. This training will focus on IP Fundamentals, IP Audits, and the use of WIPO’s diagnostic tool. Participants will also practice generating personal reports using this tool.