The contest was open to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), attracting 548 submissions from 58 countries spanning diverse sectors such as the creative industries, environment, health, and others. From this pool of applications, The WIPO Secretariat shortlisted the 25 finalists, originating from 16 countries across the globe, in the running to become one of seven winners.
A diverse panel of six judges, experts in IP, innovation and business from a variety of backgrounds, carefully selected seven winners out of the 25 finalists.
The event, held on July 11 in Geneva, was hosted by the WIPO Director General Mr. Daren Tang and members of the international jury, and included a roundtable discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities encountered by SMEs in navigating the IP system.
Winners were awarded a tailored mentoring program in crucial areas such as accessing financial resources, forging business alliances, and fortifying their IP strategies.