Ready to apply for IAP support? Access the IAP Online Platform.
Why participate in the IAP
Securing a patent is essential for turning ideas into marketable products or services, but many inventors give up due to a lack of resources or professional help. The IAP can connect you with qualified professionals who guide you through the patent journey at no cost – dramatically increasing your chances of transforming your innovation into a valuable commercial asset.
Watch our video for a crash course in patents.
In the words of inventors who’ve already received support from the IAP:
“I am really grateful for the IAP. Were it not for the IAP my hopes for a patent would have died a sudden death.”
Ettienne Goutier, South Africa
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“Without the Program, I would never have filed or even drafted my patent application. I hope the IAP will continue helping inventors like me.”
Kenza Ababou, Morocco
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“For a young inventor worried that he could not afford such services, that was a golden opportunity.”
Matt Chiu, Singapore
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Can I benefit from the IAP?
You can benefit from the IAP if you:
- are an individual or small business residing in an IAP participating country (currently Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Kenya, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, and South Africa)
- meet the local income and other eligibility criteria established by the participating country.
What the IAP provides
1. Help to get your invention protected
Our volunteers can help you secure patents or utility models in your country and internationally, including through the PCT System. They provide the following services:
- drafting and filing patent applications
- handling communication with patent offices throughout the process.
2. Commercialization services
Our volunteers also provide guidance for commercializing patents filed through the IAP. These services include:
- general strategic guidance to help you explore potential commercialization paths
- targeted in-depth support, considering your business objectives.
You and your IAP volunteer will agree on the services to be provided, as the scope of support varies based on individual needs.
What does the IAP cost?
There is no cost to participate in the IAP. Our volunteers provide their services for free.
However, the Program does not provide any direct financial assistance.
You are responsible for official fees to be paid to the Patent Office, translation costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses necessary to complete your patent applications.
Some countries offer discounts for IAP beneficiaries or have other mechanisms to reduce the costs of patent protection. For more information, you can reach out to the relevant Patent Office or IAP focal point in your country, or review the PCT fees.
What’s not included in the IAP
The Program’s services are limited to patents and utility models (also called “short-term patents”, “utility innovations”, “innovation patents”, or “functional designs” depending on the country) and do not cover other IP rights like trademarks, industrial designs, or copyright.
The IAP does not provide patent enforcement or litigation services.
How the IAP works
New to patents? WIPO’s dedicated IAP Learning Module will help you learn about the key aspects of patents, the patenting process, and the IAP.
Ready to get started? Here’s step-by-step guidance on your IAP journey.
Step 1: Apply
.Complete the application form via the IAP Online Platform
.Include details about your invention, its value, and proof you meet local eligibility criteria
You will be asked to complete the IAP Learning Module before applying to the IAP – this confirms you have basic knowledge of the patent system
Step 2: Get reviewed and selected
Your country’s focal point will review your IAP application and may request additional information. This review typically takes 2-4 weeks.
The National Screening Board meets every few months to select beneficiaries for the IAP support in your country. You will be informed of the decision via email.
Step 3: Get matched and work together
If selected, the IAP matches you with a volunteer patent specialist in your country based on the technical area of your invention. It can take a few weeks after selection to identify your volunteer.
Once matched, meet with your volunteer to develop a protection strategy for your invention. The volunteer will help you through the patent process from filing to grant.
Expected timeline: The process from application to matching typically takes 2-4 months, depending on your country’s review schedule and availability of volunteers.
The IAP can provide volunteer patent specialists in selected countries and regions to extend protection for your invention internationally at no cost. Talk to your local volunteer about the benefits of seeking protection abroad and relevant fees that remain your responsibility.
In addition to patent protection, the IAP can connect you with a skilled professional who can provide guidance for commercializing your patent. This support becomes available after you file a patent application through the Program.
IAP Learning Module
Step 1: Apply
Step 2: Get reviewed and selected