On June 18, 2025, in collaboration with the State Patent Bureau of the Republic of Lithuania (SPB), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) introduced a tailored toolkit to help startups enhance their competitiveness and navigate the complexities of intellectual property (IP).
During the national conference IP as a Key Business Enabler, held in Vilnius, Lithuania, the Lithuanian edition of the WIPO IP Diagnostic Tool and the localized publication Enterprising Ideas: A Guide to Intellectual Property (IP) for Startups were successfully launched, offering vital resources for Lithuanian entrepreneurs.
Highlights from the Conference “IP as a Key Business Enabler”
In his welcoming speech, Rytis Jokubauskas, Vice Minister of Justice of the Republic of Lithuania, drew attention to the growing awareness of the importance of intellectual property among Lithuanian companies. According to him, we live in a rapidly changing world, where ideas and knowledge are becoming the main competitive advantage. “Intellectual property is not only a legal basis, but also a means to establish itself in markets, cooperate with partners and attract investments. It is an investment in the future,” said the Vice Minister.
Lina Mickienė, Deputy Director of the State Patent Office, highlighted the importance of international cooperation and available resources: "As we grow in the small Lithuanian market, we need to look for international spaces that would stimulate growth." She noted that the State Patent Office carries out various measures and events, in cooperation with partners, in order to help businesses protect their nascent business idea.
This initiative is part of WIPO's broader commitment to empowering businesses and fostering innovation by providing access to essential IP tools and resources. The conference featured a keynote address from Mr. Guy Pessach, Director of the IP for Business Division at WIPO, who underscored the growing importance of IP as a strategic asset for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He outlined eight essential pieces of advice for startups on how to strategically manage intellectual property. Covering topics from thinking holistically and leveraging IP as a business tool, to aligning IP with business value and leadership priorities, his insights offered actionable guidance on turning intangible assets into real business opportunities. Ms. Sarah Nassar, Associate Program Officer at WIPO, elaborated on WIPO’s suite of programs, materials, and tools designed to support businesses in managing and leveraging their IP assets effectively.
"In developing these tools, we wanted to ensure they are accessible and useful for entrepreneurs worldwide, and we are now pleased that they are also available to Lithuanian companies." — Mr. Guy Pessach, IP for Business Division, WIPO
Presentation of the Customized Toolkit
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of two customized IP tools by Ms. Giedrė Rimkūnaitė-Manke’s, IP/IT Lawyer & Founder of "Dokas”. She introduced the WIPO IP Diagnostic Tool, now available in Lithuanian, explaining how it empowers local businesses to assess their IP needs in their native language—making the tool more accessible and effective for Lithuanian entrepreneurs. In addition, she presented the Lithuanian version of Enterprising Ideas: A Guide to IP for Startups [PDF], showcasing it as a comprehensive resource designed to support startups throughout their development. She emphasized the importance of integrating IP into business strategies early on to reduce risks and strengthen long-term success.
Representatives from startups Nord Security, Caszyme, and Muista Chairs joined a panel discussion to share how they protected their innovations, brands, and creative assets, enabling them to successfully establish themselves in domestic and international markets.
One-Day IP Workshop for Startups
In conjunction with the conference, IPBD organized a One-day IP Workshop for Startups. Participants received personalized, one-on-one consultations with IP experts, focusing on strategies derived from WIPO’s IP Diagnostic Tool. This interactive session provided practical guidance on key topics such as patent filing, trademark protection, and trade secrets, while also introducing startups to WIPO’s International Registration systems, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and the Madrid System—especially beneficial for those considering international expansion.
The workshop was enriched by the expertise of Ms. Inga Lukauskienė, Attorney at law, and Ms. Giedrė Rimkūnaitė-Manke. Their insights were further complemented by the presence and support of SPB staff.
The workshop received high praise from participants, many of whom found the personalized support invaluable in shaping their IP strategies. One participant remarked:
"The opportunity to talk and receive questions really helps. I feel like I'm not falling behind very much. Now all that's left is to take action." — Kotrynos Namai, Founder, MissLaboratory
The collaboration between WIPO and SPB reflects a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Lithuania. This event provided local startups with valuable insights, built IP awareness, and explored strategies to enhance business competitiveness through effective IP management.
