IFIA invites Applicants for the 2026 WIPO Global Awards Competition for SMEs.
WIPO Global Awards celebrates exceptional enterprises and individuals making smart use of intellectual property for commercialization while also bringing a positive contribution to society through their innovation and creativity.
The annual competition is open for self-nomination to applicants from around the world and from all industries. The inaugural phase has started with enterprises, but there are two other award categories planned for women and youth.
The nomination process seeks to identify inventors, creators and entrepreneurs using intellectual property (IP) rights to achieve their business goals and whose skills, technological developments, and creative content contribute to progress and improve other people’s lives.
Award winners are selected by a diverse, independent international jury with a unique expertise in IP, innovation, the creative industries, investment and business.
Who Can Apply?
We invite innovators and entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries technology, fashion, healthcare, agriculture, design, and beyond—who are utilizing intellectual property (IP) such as copyrights, trademarks, patents, or geographical indications to drive meaningful impact and transform lives.
Submissions are welcome in six languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.
Benefits for the Winners:
- Global Recognition: Winners will receive an exclusive invitation to the Awards Ceremony held during the WIPO Assembly in Geneva, scheduled for July 2026.
- Customized Mentorship: Gain access to expert guidance tailored to refine IP strategies, explore new business opportunities, and secure funding. This program goes beyond accolades, offering practical support to accelerate your success.
- Special Awards: Additional recognition will be given to the Best Woman Entrepreneur and the Best Youth Entrepreneur, celebrating their exceptional contributions.
We encourage you to share this unique opportunity within your networks to help us attract a vibrant and diverse range of applicants. For detailed information and guidance on how to apply, please visit the official WIPO Global Awards website. You can also find the Call for Applications flyer and brochure attached.
What Do You Gain?
- Global visibility through the WIPO–UN network
- A tailored 6-month mentorship program focused on IP strategy, commercialization and business growth
- Curated connections to investors, corporates, institutions and business hubs
- An invitation to the Awards Ceremony during the WIPO Assemblies in Geneva
The WIPO Global Awards 2026 competition is now open:
The WIPO Global Awards 2023 is searching for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) candidates from around the world that use intellectual property (IP)-backed innovation and creativity in an exceptional manner to achieve business goals and improve society.
Application Period: March 31. 2026
Reference: WIPO