WIPO launches new global awards programme

The first WIPO Global Awards will be granted in July 2022 to five small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which is the initial category of awardees to be followed in subsequent years by other groups, like women and youth.

Any SME from any of WIPO’s 193 member states may self-nominate for the award until 14 March 2022.

“SMEs are the largest business sector in many countries, and a vibrant and innovative SME sector is critical to future economic growth,” WIPO director-general Daren Tang said.

“At the same time, many SMEs that innovate are unaware how intellectual property can help them take their ideas to market. Through the WIPO Global Awards, we aim to recognise SMEs that are using IP to make a difference in the world and can serve as a role model and inspiration to other entrepreneurs and SMEs.”

A panel of seven judges with expertise in IP, innovation and business, and drawn from a wide range of backgrounds, will evaluate the candidates. They will use a range of criteria, including the successful commercialisation of IP and its positive impact on the economy, society or culture while considering the diversity of the contenders and their locations.

The panel of judges will then select the winners, who will participate in an awards ceremony during the meetings of the WIPO Assemblies scheduled from 15 to 22 July 2022.

The winners will also receive a personalised mentorship programme to help them to use IP for business growth, as well as other forms of support and sponsorship that will facilitate their access to funding and business growth.