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It's a Wrap: WIPO and TIH Concludes IP Management Clinic in South Africa

June 24, 2024

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in collaboration with The Innovation Hub (TIH) recently completed its first IP Management Clinic Program (IPMC) in South Africa. The twelve beneficiary startups were from the Health sector (4), Information and communication technology (4) and Green Economy (4).  As with other clinics, the program aimed to support startups in making effective and strategic use of intellectual property (IP) to enhance their entrepreneurial activities. Over the four-month IPMC program, participants benefited from mentorship provided by experts in IP management and business development.

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Representatives of participating Startups with their experts and representatives of WIPO and TIH, during the Public Event held in Pretoria, South Africa on April 26, 2024 (Image: Courtesy of TIH).

Mr. Brian Dube and specialists from Afriqinnov8 and TripleL led their IP management mentorship, offering their expertise and insights. Business development guidance was provided by Mr. Relebogile Modiga, Dr. Roche Mamabolo, and Mr. Maloba Tshehla. The TIH team, led by Dr. Phuti Phuti Chelopo-Mkobozi, included Ms. Magdeline Mokobaki (IP expert and main link), Ms. Tshililo Gededzha, and Ms. Ofentse Nobela.

The program concluded with a public event where participants shared their experiences and understanding of IP issues. They expressed appreciation for the program's introduction to the world of IP and its potential benefits. The event also allowed non-participating startups to learn how effective IP use can positively impact their entrepreneurial journey.

WIPO's IPMC projects have previously been conducted in Kenya, Nigeria, and Liberia. Following the experience in South Africa, additional IPMC programs are planned for other African countries, including Tanzania and Botswana.