Deadline: 14 August 2025
Are you a young professional passionate about innovation, creativity, and intellectual property (IP)? The WIPO Young Experts Program 2026-2027 offers an incredible two-year professional development journey at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This highly competitive opportunity is designed to build the next generation of global IP leaders.
The WIPO Young Experts Program 2026-2027 is more than just a fellowship—it’s a platform to deepen your expertise in IP, strengthen multilateral collaboration skills, and contribute meaningfully to the global innovation ecosystem.
About the WIPO Young Experts Program
The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) is a 24-month, full-time, paid opportunity that provides young professionals with immersive training and hands-on experience in IP policy, strategy, and implementation. Hosted at WIPO’s headquarters, YEP aims to build capacity in the global IP system by fostering inclusive development and representation from all regions, especially developing and least-developed countries.
This is not a recruitment track—participants cannot apply for WIPO jobs during the programme or for two years after completion. It is solely a learning and development platform.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 14 August 2025
- Selection Tests: End of August 2025
- Virtual Interviews: September–October 2025
- Final Selection & Offers: November 2025
- Onboarding: December 2025–January 2026
- Programme Commencement: 1 February 2026
Programme Details
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland (WIPO Headquarters)
- Duration: 2 years (February 2026 to January 2028)
- Stipend: CHF 5,000 per month
- Other Benefits:
- 75% coverage of medical and accident insurance
- Contribution to travel costs
- Relocation guidance and support with accommodation
- Visa facilitation assistance
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold a first-level university degree
- Have at least 2 years of professional experience in a relevant field
- Demonstrate strong analytical, research, organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Be fluent in English (additional UN languages are an asset)
- Have a demonstrated interest or experience in IP, innovation, or creativity
WIPO strongly encourages applications from nationals of developing, least-developed, and transition countries, as well as from women and underrepresented groups.
What You’ll Learn
Participants will gain:
- In-depth understanding of IP systems and global policy
- Practical experience across WIPO sectors
- Professional and leadership development
- Networking opportunities with international experts
- Exposure to multilateral working environments
How to Apply
Ready to take the leap? You’ll need to prepare the following documents:
- A well-crafted cover letter explaining your motivation and fit
- An updated CV
- Names and contacts of two referees
WIPO’s selection process includes written assessments and virtual interviews. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.
🔗 Application Links
Final Thoughts
The WIPO Young Experts Program 2026-2027 offers a rare and transformative opportunity for talented professionals from around the world to become future leaders in the intellectual property field. With structured training, mentorship, and cross-cultural exposure, YEP provides the ideal foundation for a thriving career in the global innovation ecosystem.
Whether you’re driven by policy, law, economics, technology, or creativity, this is your chance to be at the forefront of IP development.
Need help with your application?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
