Connecting Inventors.
Advancing Innovation.
Since 1968, IFIA has brought together inventors, innovation organizations, institutions, and international partners to advance creativity, cooperation, and technological progress worldwide.
Discover Our Mission Explore Our ActivitiesWhat Is IFIA?
The International Federation of Inventors' Associations (IFIA) is an international, non-governmental, nonprofit organization founded in 1968.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and maintaining a presence in the United States, IFIA serves as a global platform for inventors, innovators, associations, research institutions, and organizations working to advance invention and innovation.
Decades of International Cooperation
*Figures reflect information published by IFIA and may be updated as its network evolves.
Empowering the People Behind Innovation
IFIA's mission is to support inventors and innovators by strengthening international cooperation, expanding educational opportunities, encouraging knowledge exchange, and promoting intellectual property awareness.
The Federation works to connect innovative ideas with international networks and opportunities for development, recognition, and commercialization.
By fostering collaboration among associations, universities, research institutions, innovation centers, and other stakeholders, IFIA contributes to a stronger global innovation ecosystem.
What Drives IFIA Forward?
International Cooperation
Building meaningful connections between inventors, associations, institutions, and innovation communities.
Knowledge & Education
Encouraging the exchange of expertise, technical knowledge, and practical intellectual property awareness.
Recognition & Opportunity
Creating international platforms where inventors can present their work, gain visibility, and build partnerships.
What Does IFIA Do?
IFIA supports invention and innovation through a diverse range of international programs, events, and initiatives.
Inventor Support
Connecting inventors with networks, knowledge, opportunities, and innovation resources.
Global Membership
Bringing together inventor associations, universities, research institutions, and innovation organizations.
International Cooperation
Promoting dialogue and collaboration with international institutions, governments, and innovation stakeholders.
Invention Exhibitions
Supporting exhibitions, competitions, festivals, and conferences that showcase innovative ideas.
Intellectual Property
Raising awareness of intellectual property rights and the importance of protecting and managing inventions.
Education & Training
Encouraging knowledge exchange through workshops, seminars, training, and educational programs.
Capacity Building
Helping innovation communities access professional networks and opportunities for growth.
Awards & Recognition
Recognizing exceptional inventors, innovations, and contributions to technological advancement.
Innovation Ecosystems
Encouraging technology transfer, international partnerships, and sustainable innovation.
International Engagement & Cooperation
IFIA holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
The Federation maintains institutional relationships and cooperation in fields related to innovation, intellectual property, technology, and development, including engagement with WIPO, UNIDO, and UNCTAD.
These relationships help connect the international inventor community with knowledge, dialogue, and opportunities for collaboration.
Explore International RelationsFounded in 1968. Focused on the Future.
IFIA was established on 11 July 1968 during the first International Inventors Conference in London, bringing together representatives of national inventors' associations.
Foundation
IFIA was formed to encourage international cooperation among inventors' associations.
A Global Innovation Platform
IFIA continues to connect inventors, member organizations, international institutions, and innovation stakeholders worldwide.
One Network. Countless Ideas.
Through its member organizations, IFIA connects a global community of inventors, researchers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and innovation professionals.
Everything You Need to Know About IFIA
What does IFIA stand for?
IFIA stands for the International Federation of Inventors' Associations.
When was IFIA founded?
IFIA was founded on 11 July 1968.
Is IFIA a nonprofit organization?
Yes. IFIA is an international, non-governmental, nonprofit organization.
Where is IFIA headquartered?
IFIA is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and maintains a presence in the United States.
What does IFIA do?
IFIA supports inventors through international cooperation, educational activities, invention exhibitions, awards, networking, and intellectual property awareness.
Who can become an IFIA member?
Eligible inventor associations, innovation organizations, universities, research institutions, and other relevant entities may apply subject to IFIA's membership rules and procedures.
Does IFIA cooperate with WIPO?
IFIA maintains cooperation and institutional engagement with the World Intellectual Property Organization in areas relevant to inventors and innovation.
Innovation Connects Us All.
Explore IFIA's international network, discover opportunities for cooperation, and help advance invention and innovation around the world.
Explore Membership Contact IFIA
What Is IFIA? A Global Federation Supporting Inventors
The International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA) is an international, non-governmental, nonprofit organization established in 1968. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, IFIA promotes invention, creativity, and innovation through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.
IFIA’s Mission and Global Innovation Network
IFIA connects inventors, national inventors’ associations, universities, research institutions, and innovation organizations worldwide. Its mission is to strengthen the international inventor community, encourage technological development, and create opportunities for collaboration.
Through its global network, IFIA helps raise awareness of intellectual property rights, supports innovation education, and encourages inventors to develop and present their ideas.
International Invention Exhibitions and Inventor Support
IFIA supports international invention exhibitions, innovation competitions, educational programs, and professional networking opportunities. These activities help inventors showcase their technologies, exchange knowledge, and connect with potential partners.
IFIA also promotes awareness of resources offered by international organizations, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to help inventors better understand intellectual property protection and innovation development.
Discover More About IFIA
Learn more about IFIA’s history, explore the global membership network, and discover opportunities to participate in international innovation activities.
