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The WIPO - Blaze Startup Accelerator Workshop

June 23, 2023

A tailored workshop to strengthen startups’ IP strategy

Geneva, Switzerland - On May 10, 2023, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) collaborated with blaze startup accelerator from the EPFL Startup Launchpad to organize a workshop aimed at optimizing potential intellectual property (IP) assets in student startups. The event took place at WIPO's headquarters and brought together a diverse group of startups and experts in the field.

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(Photo: WIPO)

We appreciated this workshop specifically organized for us, instead of just having a global overview.

Alexandre Reis De Matos, Co-founder, UNKI

The workshop was part of an initiative from WIPO's IP for Business Division to address the lack of IP knowledge within the business community, particularly among early-stage startups. As more university students are opting to start their own businesses instead of pursuing traditional employment, the need for specialized knowledge on creating successful and sustainable ventures has become increasingly apparent.

Recognizing this trend, many universities have established entrepreneurship centers that offer educational activities, networking opportunities, and a supportive community for aspiring startup creators. These centers provide valuable guidance on various aspects of entrepreneurship, but specific, in-depth workshops in IP-related topics are very well received.

The Workshop aimed to bridge this gap by integrating an IP deeper section into the program offered by blaze startup accelerator led by Maurice Gaillard. The collaboration leveraged existing materials and tools developed by WIPO, tailored to meet the specific needs of the startup community, but most importantly provided an opportunity for interactive discussion between the two parties.

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(Photo: WIPO)

I found that the experts’ 1:1 was extremely valuable. (They) were very honest which once again hard to get and much appreciated.

Jonathan Besomi, Co-founder, Grandmaster AI

During the workshop, the 6 EPFL student startups had the opportunity to gain a broader understanding of IP and learn how it can benefit their businesses. The sessions covered topics such as developing an IP strategy, successful examples of startups utilizing IP, and the risks associated with neglecting the IP system.

A practical exercise, guided by WIPO Young Experts (YEPs), focused on helping startups to further explore their IP assets. The session aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize and protect their innovations effectively.

Additionally, startups had the chance to engage in one-on-one sessions with WIPO Senior Staff, allowing them to explore strategies for scaling up their IP strategies and addressing specific concerns related to their ventures.

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(Photo: WIPO)

I'm delighted that we could connect our startups with the WIPO teams, which represent a valuable step in their further development.

Maurice Gaillard, blaze startup accelerator, Program Manager at EPFL

This inaugural WIPO - Blaze Startup Accelerator Workshop demonstrated that the earlier entrepreneurs begin thinking about their intellectual property and intangible assets portfolio management, the better they are prepared for their future business journey. At WIPO we are very much looking forward to continuing this collaboration.

Mariana Velasco, IP for Business Division, WIPO

The WIPO - Blaze Startup Accelerator Workshop provided a valuable platform for startups to enhance their understanding of IP and its importance in the business landscape. By strengthening IP knowledge among startup creators, the collaboration aims to leverage innovation, support sustainable growth, and protect the intellectual property assets of emerging ventures.

For further information about the blaze program, please visit: EPFL blaze startup accelerator.

Disclaimer: The information provided by WIPO during the workshop was intended to provide general understanding and guidance on intellectual property. Startups were advised to seek legal advice from appropriate professionals for their specific situations, and WIPO bears no responsibility for actions taken based on the information provided.

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