The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has opened applications for the 2026 edition of its Global Awards competition. This initiative is designed to recognize and support startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from all economic sectors and geographic regions that effectively utilize intellectual property (IP) as a cornerstone for their business growth and positive real-world impact. The program celebrates innovative companies that transform IP into significant economic and societal value.
Program Overview
• Organizer: The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the United Nations agency for innovation and creativity.
• Objective: To celebrate and support SMEs and startups that use IP to expand their business and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Competition: The 5th edition of the WIPO Global Awards, taking place in 2026.
• Recognition: A total of 11 enterprises will be selected as winners.
Award Categories for 2026
• General Prizes: Ten prizes will be awarded to enterprises across all sectors of the economy, including health, agrifood, environment, creative industries, and ICT.
• Thematic Prize: One prize will be dedicated to SMEs in Sports, aligning with the theme of World IP Day 2026.
• Special Mentions: Two special mentions will be given for Best Woman Entrepreneur and Best Youth Entrepreneur (under 35).
Eligibility Requirements
• Geographic Scope: Open to startups and SMEs from all 194 WIPO Member States.
• Legal Status: Applicants must be legally registered businesses.
• Company Size: Must have a maximum of 300 employees and USD 15 million in annual revenue.
• Innovation: The business must offer an innovative product or service linked to intellectual property.
• IP Rights: Applicants must hold at least one pending IP right (for startups) or one registered IP right (for SMEs).
• Market Presence: Startups must demonstrate early-market activity, while SMEs must show commercial traction.
Evaluation Criteria
• Business & IP Strategy: The strength of the business model and the IP protection strategy.
• Commercialization: The clarity of the plan for IP commercialization.
• Internal Culture: The company’s internal culture regarding intellectual property.
• Societal Impact: The contribution of the business to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Benefits for Winners
• Global Recognition: Winners receive visibility through the WIPO–UN system, international media exposure, and promotional materials. They are also presented with a unique, handcrafted Murano glass trophy.
• Acceleration & Support: The prize package includes a tailored six-month, one-on-one mentorship program on IP asset commercialization, an exclusive two-day workshop on IP and business, and access to year-round online fireside chats with experts.
• Networking Opportunities: Winners are invited to an Awards Ceremony in Geneva, providing access to leaders from 194 countries. They also gain connections to an ecosystem of investors, corporations, accelerators, and service providers offering exclusive benefits.
• Community Access: Entry into the WIPO Global Awards Alumni Community, a network of over 100 business pioneers.
Application Details
• Application Period: Submissions are open from January 15, 2026, until March 31, 2026, at 23:59 Central European Time.
• Application Languages: The official application form is available in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian.
• Selection Process: Applications will be evaluated by an independent international jury.
The WIPO Global Awards provide a significant platform for IP-driven enterprises to achieve international acclaim and accelerate their growth. Through a combination of global visibility, tailored mentorship, and exclusive networking opportunities, the program equips winners with the strategic support needed to scale their operations, enter new markets, and secure investment, thereby amplifying their commercial and societal impact.