Do you have a smart concept that can help solve real-world problems as an entrepreneur or innovator? The WIPO Intellectual Property (IP) Labs program aims to assist you in turning your concept into a profitable business.
The WIPO IP LABS is a programme designed by the WIPO Nigeria Office (WNO) in partnership with the WIPO program and WNO implementing partner – The Orbra Company – to assist idea-stage companies in Nigeria in developing their ideas, building them into scalable products, and using intellectual property (IP) for prosperity.
WIPO IP Labs is looking for proposals from early-stage entrepreneurs in Nigeria for a virtual incubation and acceleration program centered on using intellectual property for commercial growth.
About World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
WIPO is the global forum for intellectual property (IP) services, policy, information and cooperation. We are a self-funding agency of the United Nations, with 193 member states. Our mission is to lead the development of a balanced and effective international IP system that enables innovation and creativity for the benefit of all. Our mandate, governing bodies and procedures are set out in the WIPO Convention, which established WIPO in 1967.
Benefits of Intellectual Property (IP) Labs Program
The program aims to help startups:
- Develop innovative ideas into scalable products
- Build awareness on using IP for business
- Create minimum viable products (MVPs)
- Develop pitch decks
- Secure relevant IP rights for inventions and innovations.
- Connect with mentors, investors and other ecosystem stakeholders
Through WIPO’s IP Management Clinics, you’ll learn to use IP as a business strategy. You’ll also get to:
- Create a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and pitch deck
- Connect with investors and mentors
- Network with peers
- Learn tools and strategies for IP management
Qualification Requirements
WIPO IP Labs welcomes individuals or teams with innovative technology-driven ideas that address challenges in areas like finance, job creation, climate change, agriculture etc. Your idea should have an intellectual property component that can be protected.
How To Apply
Interested and qualified? Go to World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on surveys.wipo.int to apply
The program will run from August to December 2023 and has two stages::
Stage 1: General mentoring on startup development, design thinking, pitching, and IP introduction
Stage 2: Incubation, acceleration and IP Management Clinics to help you leverage IP protection for business growth
For more details, visit WIPO website on http://www.wipo.int/about-wipo/en/offices/nigeria/ip-labs.html