Universities and Intellectual Property
Universities and public research institutions (PRIs) are the factories of the knowledge economy.
Intellectual property (IP) adds another mechanism for universities to disseminate the knowledge that they generate and to have that knowledge used in the economic sector.
What we do
We provide advice, support and resources to help universities and PRIs around the world tap into their IP and continue fueling the innovation that drives society forward.
Resources
We maintain a non-exhaustive list of free resources for universities and PRIs.
Database of IP Policies from Universities and Research Institutions
What better way to learn than from others? Search intellectual property policies, manuals and model agreements from universities and research institutions worldwide.
Knowledge Transfer for Universities
For great ideas to flourish, they need to make their way from universities and research centers into the hands of the consumer. Understanding IP issues around knowledge transfer can help get discoveries from the lab to the marketplace.
University IP in action
A selection of case studies on the topic of IP policies and knowledge transfer in practice. Find more case studies.
Life in 3D
Find out about one pioneering scientist's work on bridging the gap between the 2D and 3D worlds.
Ball power
What if you could help solve sustainability problems simply by playing football?
Developing innovation
A test for genetic deafness in newborns is just one invention from Brazil's first university-based technology transfer office.
Satellite surveying
Imagine being able to use satellites in space to identify areas at risk of landslides, floods, earthquakes, and more.
How we can help you
Aside from our free database of IP policies, we undertake a growing range of activities to support the development of IP policies for universities and PRIs around the world.
Our activities take place upon official request from our member states. If you are a member state and wish to find out more, please get in touch.
Awareness raising
We organize events for governments, universities and PRIs to explain how and why institutional IP policies can be of use.
We also develop tools, such as free WIPO publications, that policy makers and individuals can use in educating others.
Capacity building
We run several country projects which can involve:
- fact-finding missions and sharing of best practices;
- development of tailor-made national model IP policies;
- practical assistance to selected universities and PRIs in drafting tailored IP policies.
Policy analysis
We provide advice and assistance to our member states on how best to establish a clear national regulatory framework/policy for IP rights developed within universities and PRIs.