World Intellectual Property Organization
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), headquartered in Geneva, is a specialised agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting the protection of intellectual property (IP) worldwide. Recognising the pivotal role of knowledge transfer (KT) in fostering innovation and economic development, WIPO has intensified its collaboration with the global KT community. This includes co-hosting an annual global summit of leaders from knowledge valorisation associations, such as ASTP.
WIPO’s commitment to enhancing technology transfer is evident through various initiatives:
Educational Programmes:
WIPO organises seminars and webinars tailored to the needs of technology transfer professionals. For instance, the WIPO-ASTP Webinar: WIPO Mediation of R&D and Technology Transfer Disputes, held on 18 May 2021, provided insights into alternative dispute resolution mechanisms pertinent to the KT sector.
Resource Development
The organisation has developed toolkits and guidelines to assist institutions in managing intellectual property effectively. A notable example is the WIPO Toolkit on New Product Development and Inventions in the Public Domain, which provides structured guidance on leveraging public domain inventions for new product development. This is particularly beneficial for ASTP members, as it supports decision-making and enhances strategies for bringing innovations to market
Human Capital and Incentives for Researchers
WIPO recognises that skilled professionals are at the core of a successful knowledge transfer ecosystem. Through its work on human capital development in knowledge transfer, WIPO provides resources to build capacity and strengthen expertise among technology transfer professionals, entrepreneurs, and researchers. Additionally, WIPO has developed a comprehensive guide on incentives in technology transfer, offering strategies to encourage, recognise, and reward researchers and professionals engaging in commercialisation activities.
Ecosystem Building
Through the establishment of Technology and Innovation Support Centres (TISCs), WIPO facilitates access to patent information and technological knowledge, thereby strengthening local innovation ecosystems.
Collaboration between WIPO and ASTP
The collaboration between WIPO and ASTP exemplifies a shared vision to advance global knowledge transfer practices. By leveraging WIPO’s resources and ASTP’s extensive network, both organisations aim to empower knowledge transfer professionals and enhance the impact of research and innovation on society.