IP Commercialization in Techno-Parks of EAPO Member States: Expert Meeting and Training on IP Licensing and Valuation

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO) recently organized a two-day Regional Experts Meeting and Training on Enhancing IP Commercialization Capacity of Techno-Parks in the Region of EAPO Member States. The event took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on March 12 and 13, 2024. Over 40 participants attended representing various sectors such as IP professionals, technopark administrators, government representatives, academia, and industry.

The training was part of a larger initiative of WIPO and EAPO to support the commercialization of IP in technoparks and promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the EAPO member states. The organizations believe that effective IP commercialization can contribute significantly to the economic growth and development of the region.

The first day of the training focused on providing a theoretical foundation for IP commercialization in technoparks, with a particular focus on the anatomy of licensing agreements and negotiation principles. The second day of the training was dedicated to a practical application of the concepts learned through a "role game" and simulation of licensing negotiations. The groups then engaged in a simulated negotiation exercise, with guidance from expert speakers.

The success of the training can be attributed to the expertise of the international speakers – Frédéric Caillaud, Scientific Director of the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) in France; Veronique Blum, Assistant Professor at Grenoble University in France; and Olga Spasic, Consultant and Former Head of Technology Transfer Section at WIPO.

Participants appreciated the opportunity to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in IP commercialization, particularly in the context of technoparks. The high participation of local stakeholders from various sectors further enriched the learning experience and facilitated valuable networking opportunities.