WIPO Global Awards 2025 for SMEs

The WIPO Global Awards is an annual program that celebrate small businesses, start-ups and university entrepreneurs that leverage Intellectual Property (IP) backed innovation and creativity in an exceptional manner to achieve business goals and improve society.

The WIPO Global Awards are celebrating your achievements, specifically focusing on:

• Developing innovations that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Transforming research and ideas into successful commercial ventures
• Achieving business growth through IP-driven strategies

Requirements for SMEs

The contest is open to small businesses, start-ups including university spinouts located in one of WIPO’s 193 Member States.

It is a registered business entity. Proof of registration is required.

It has no more than 300 employees and up to 15 US$ millions of total annual sales.

It is a holder of at least one registered IP right.

It is exporting its products or services to at least one country

Requirements for Startups

The Awards Program is open to all To participate as a startups, you must be located in at least one of WIPO’s 193 countries and also meet the following conditions:

The startup has affirmed its engagement with at least one commercial customer, and/or has completed a business sale, and/or secured one investor

The startup is a registered business entity with a legal existence of no more than three years. Proof of registration is required.

It has no more than 50 employees.

The startup has an innovative product or service associated with IP rights.

The startup has submitted at least one application for the registration of one IP right and/or is the holder of at least one registered IP right.

The startup is affiliated with a business support organization, such as an incubator, an accelerator, or a similar entity. Proof of affiliation is required.

suggested for you: Providus Bank SME Program

Key Benefits of WIPO Global Awards

• Tailored mentorship for the commercialization of innovations and creations
• Exclusive access to WIPO resources
• Global visibility and recognition
• Access to the awards ceremony and other networking events in Geneva, Switzerland. Travel expenses covered

How To Apply

Application Deadline: 31st March, 2025

Click here to begin your online application

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