The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has opened applications for the WIPO Global Awards 2026, an international recognition programme celebrating startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that use intellectual property (IP) as a strategic tool for growth, competitiveness, and global impact.
The awards spotlight businesses that are turning innovation and creativity into measurable economic, social, and environmental value. In 2026, 11 enterprises from around the world will be recognised across multiple sectors, including health, agrifood, environment, creative industries, ICT, and sports.
Award Categories
For the 2026 edition, WIPO will select:
- 10 Global Awards across all sectors of the economy
- 1 Thematic Award for SMEs in Sports, aligned with World IP Day 2026
- 2 Special Mentions:
- Best Woman Entrepreneur
- Best Youth Entrepreneur
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Strength of the business model and IP protection strategy
- Clarity of the IP commercialisation plan
- Existence of a strong internal IP culture
- Contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be startups or SMEs from any of WIPO’s 194 Member States
- Be legally registered
- Have no more than 300 employees and annual revenue not exceeding USD 15 million
- Offer an innovative product or service linked to IP
- Hold at least one pending IP right (for startups) or one registered IP right (for SMEs)
- Demonstrate early market activity (startups) or commercial traction (SMEs)
ALSO APPLY FOR:
African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative (AWEC) Programme 2026 for Female Entrepreneurs (Cohort 9)
Benefits for Winners
Selected winners will receive:
- Invitation to Geneva, Switzerland, to attend the WIPO Global Awards Ceremony during the WIPO Assemblies (travel expenses covered)
- Global recognition and visibility through the WIPO–UN system
- International media exposure and promotional materials to enhance credibility
- Access to an exclusive 2-day IP and business strategy workshop
- A tailored six-month 1:1 mentorship programme focused on IP commercialisation and growth
- Year-round online expert sessions and fireside chats
- Exclusive networking opportunities with investors, corporates, accelerators, and service providers
- Membership in the WIPO Global Awards Alumni Community, joining over 100 innovation-driven enterprises worldwide
How to Apply
Applications are open from 15 January 2026 to 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET).
The application form is available in:
English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian.
Apply for the WIPO Global Awards
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