WIPO China: How to Apply to the WIPO Global Awards 2026
The WIPO Global Awards recognize exceptional startups and SMEs from all sectors who use Intellectual Property (IP) to drive business growth and societal impact. If your co mpany leverages patents, trademarks, designs, copyright, or other IP assets, you may be eligible for this United Nations–based distinction.
Who can apply?
The WIPO Global Awards are open to Startups and SMEs from all WIPO Member States (194 countries).
Eligibility — SMEs
An SME must:
- Be a registered business entity (proof of registration required)
- Have a maximum of 300 employees
- Have a maximum annual revenue of USD 15 million
- Offer an innovative product or service connected to IP
- It holds at least one registered IP right
- Be active in one or several markets, domestically or internationally
Eligibility — Startups
A startup must:
- Be a registered business entity (proof of registration required)
- Have a maximum of 300 employees
- .Have a maximum annual revenue of USD 15 million
- Offer an innovative product or service connected to IP
- Have filed at least one application for IP rights
- Be at pre-market or early-market stage (pilots, first clients, first contracts)
No application fees. Open to all sectors.
Awards structure
The WIPO Global Awards Program grants:
10 Awards (company-based, by sector and commercial maturity)
- Health (SME / Startup)
- Environment (SME / Startup)
- Creative Industries (SME / Startup)
- Food & Agriculture (SME / Startup)
- ICT (SME / Startup)
2 Special Mentions (founder-based, leadership & ambassadorial role)
- Best Woman Entrepreneur
- Best Youth Entrepreneur
New this year: An additional Award based on the World IP Day theme: Sports.
Roadmap to the Award
1. Application Period
JANUARY 15 – MARCH 31
- Online form with evaluation questions
- Available in 6 languages
- Possibility to upload supporting documents
2. Announcement of Finalists
SECOND WEEK OF MAY
- Pre-screening by WIPO Secretariat
- Expert review to select 30 finalist
- Finalists receive a Seal of Excellence and a certificate
- Finalists become part of the WIPO Global Awards Alumni Community and gain access to selected benefits offered by Ecosystem Partners, including visibility, networking, and support opportunities.
3. International Jury Deliberations
END OF MAY
- Jury selects 10 winners
- Winners are informed at least one month before the ceremony
4. Awards Ceremony & Prizes
JULY (DURING THE WIPO GENERAL ASSEMBLIES)
- Ceremony in Geneva
- Workshops and mentoring onboarding
Evaluation criteria
Evaluation is based on four pillars:
- Business case & IP portfolio
How your product / service fits in the market and how well your IP protects it.
- IP commercialization strategy
How you use your IP rights to commercialize your work at the regional / international level.
- IP culture within the company
How much your team and company value and use IP in everyday work.
- Impact for a better society
How your work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and contributes to economic, social, cultural and environmental development.
International Jury
The winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation by an independent international jury composed of high-profile individuals recognized for their global achievements.
The panel reflects diversity across geography, gender, age, culture, language, and industry, ensuring a fair and inclusive assessment process.
Tips to apply and info session recording
To help you prepare strong and competitive answers, keep in mind the following guidance:
- Be factual, specific, and evidence-based. Avoid vague claims or overly promotional language.
- Support statements with proof such as figures, contracts, clients, certifications, partnerships, press coverage, or pilot results.
- Explain clearly how your IP supports your business, competitiveness, and growth.
- Use concrete examples wherever possible: jury members value clarity and real-world evidence.
- If using AI tools, review outputs carefully to ensure they are accurate, precise, and fully aligned with your actual business and IP assets.
Download WIPO Global Awards-- Tips for Strong Answers and Illustrative Examples
11 mars 2026