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WIPO Global Awards: Recognizing Innovation and Impact in SMEs and Startups

Table of Content

  1. Overview of WIPO Global Awards
  2. Benefits
  3. Eligibility Criteria
  4. Evaluation Criteria
  5. Application Process

The WIPO Global Awards is now accepting applications, offering an incredible opportunity for small businesses, startups, and university spinouts to showcase their innovation and creativity. Organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, the awards aim to recognize businesses that are using intellectual property (IP) to contribute positively to society, drive economic growth, and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Originally designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the scope of the WIPO Global Awards has expanded to include startups and university spinouts. This initiative welcomes participants from various industries including tech, fashion, agriculture, media, music, and design. It's an ideal platform for businesses seeking to gain global recognition, grow internationally, and receive valuable mentorship and visibility.

Benefits

Winning the WIPO Global Award offers numerous benefits including:

  • Tailored Mentorship: Guidance to help businesses grow and succeed globally.
  • Visibility and Recognition: Media coverage and global exposure through WIPO’s networks.
  • Fully Funded Travel: Winners receive travel support to attend the Awards Ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • WIPO Trophy: A symbol of achievement and excellence in the field of intellectual property.
  • Partnership and Funding Opportunities: Access to business partnerships, financial resources, and international collaboration.

Eligibility Criteria

The WIPO Global Awards are open to businesses and startups from WIPO's 193 member countries. To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • For SMEs:
    • Registered businesses with no more than 300 employees and annual sales of up to $15 million.
    • Must hold at least one registered intellectual property right.
    • Engage in exporting goods or services to at least one other country.
  • For Startups:
    • Must have fewer than 50 employees and be affiliated with a business support organization such as an incubator or accelerator.
    • Must show proof of commercial engagement with at least one customer or investor.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are judged based on:

  • IP Strategy and Portfolio
  • Impact on Society
  • International IP Strategy
  • IP Culture

Application Process

To apply for the WIPO Global Awards 2025, candidates must:

  1. Submit the online application on WIPO's official website.
  2. Choose a category (either SMEs or startups) and submit only one application.
  3. Provide documentation that proves your eligibility, including IP rights and business achievements.
  4. Applications must be submitted in one of the six official United Nations languages.

Deadline:

The deadline for submitting applications is March 31, 2025. Be sure to submit your application before this date for a chance to be recognized at the prestigious Awards Ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply

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