WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) launched its Global Awards again this year. Held in 2022 for the first time, the event celebrates enterprises and individuals making smart use of intellectual property for commercialization while also bringing a positive contribution to society through their innovation and creativity. WIPO’s Global Awards 2023 are open to SMEs of the entire range of business activity (the creative industries, local and international brands, innovative technological providers and all others). An independent jury of renowned experts will select up to seven winners from a shortlist of 20 nominees based on a range of criteria, including the successful commercialization of IP and its positive contribution to society. Winners receive a tailored 1:1 mentoring package to support their IP strategies – including funding facilitation, partnership opportunities and publicity support. Winners will receive their awards at a ceremony at WIPO’s Geneva headquarters during WIPO’s General Assembly in July 2023. “WIPO’s Global Awards program recognizes enterprises and individuals that bring great new products and services to market, creating jobs that support communities, while improving our world through their work – said WIPO Director General Daren Tang –. Our hope is that in recognizing the IP-centered achievements of SMEs, we will encourage greater numbers of businesses and entrepreneurs to use IP strategically in taking their ideas to market”.
