WIPO IP & SMEs Topical Dialogues

The WIPO IP & SMEs Topical Dialogues explores emerging themes at the intersection of intellectual property (IP) and key business dimensions, including corporate governance, taxation, brand management, funding and insurance.

As businesses increasingly rely on intangible assets to create value, remain competitive and drive growth, effective IP use requires decisions that extend beyond legal protection to encompass how IP is managed, valued and commercialized.

The IP & SMEs Topical Dialogues provide a practical, evidence-informed platform for exchange among public and private sector stakeholders, connecting IP with the broader business, financial and governance considerations that shape enterprise success. They aim to move the conversation from IP awareness to IP action, while generating insights that can inform practical guidance, tools and services for enterprises and partner institutions.

The first edition of the WIPO IP & SMEs Topical Dialogues will explore the intersection of IP and insurance.

Date: December 1, 2026

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. (Geneva time, CET)
Language: English

Objectives of the Dialogues

The Dialogues aim to:

  • Facilitate informed exchanges on emerging issues at the intersection of IP and business.
  • Bridge legal, economic, financial and industry perspectives to foster a better understanding of how IP contributes to business value.
  • Encourage knowledge-sharing and dialogue among Member States, businesses and other relevant stakeholders.
  • Identify practical insights and opportunities to support businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in making strategic use of their IP assets.

Format of the Dialogues

Each Dialogue focuses on a specific strategic theme and brings together a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives of Member States, IP offices, businesses, industry, investors, legal and business practitioners, and academia.

The Dialogues are held in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and online participation. Each edition is designed to be accessible, interactive and business-oriented, and is accompanied by concise background materials drawing on expert contributions from academic, legal, economic and industry perspectives.