Deadline: March 31, 2026
The WIPO Global Awards 2026 is now open for applications! Organised by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), this prestigious annual competition recognises and celebrates innovative startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that effectively use Intellectual Property (IP) to drive business growth and contribute to social, economic, and environmental development worldwide.
About the WIPO Global Awards 2026
The WIPO Global Awards 2026 programme is designed to honour enterprises that use IP as a tool for innovation and impact. Each year, the competition spotlights outstanding businesses whose creativity and IP strategies deliver real-world solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In its 2026 edition, WIPO aims to celebrate 11 exceptional winners from across the globe, recognising their pioneering ideas and strategic IP use in fostering sustainability, inclusiveness, and economic empowerment.
Categories of the WIPO Global Awards 2026
In 2026, the Awards will acknowledge excellence across multiple sectors through the following distinctions:
- 10 Awards for innovative startups and SMEs from various industries, including health, agrifood, ICT, creative sectors, and environment.
- 1 Thematic Prize dedicated to SMEs in Sports, in line with World IP Day 2026.
- 2 Special Mentions recognising:
- Best Woman Entrepreneur
- Best Youth Entrepreneur
Eligibility Criteria
The WIPO Global Awards 2026 is open to startups and SMEs from all 194 WIPO Member States. Applications are welcome from enterprises in any economic sector that demonstrate strategic IP use to grow their business.
For Startups
Applicants must:
- Be a legally registered business entity.
- Have no more than 300 employees.
- Generate an annual revenue not exceeding USD 15 million.
- Offer an innovative product or service that leverages Intellectual Property (IP).
- Have filed at least one IP application (patent, design, or trademark).
- Demonstrate early-stage market activity, such as customer engagement or sales contracts.
For SMEs
Applicants must:
- Be legally registered and operational in any WIPO Member State.
- Hold at least one registered IP right.
- Show commercial traction or measurable business performance linked to IP use.
Participation is free and open to enterprises in all industries — including technology, healthcare, agriculture, the creative economy, and environmental solutions.
Benefits of Participating
Winners and finalists of the WIPO Global Awards 2026 receive a wide range of benefits designed to help them grow, network, and expand internationally. These include:
- Global recognition and credibility under the WIPO–United Nations framework.
- A six-month tailored mentorship programme on IP strategy, business development, and market expansion.
- Access to investors, business networks, and strategic partners.
- Exclusive workshops, events, and networking opportunities.
- An invitation to the award ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Increased media exposure and global visibility.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by an independent international jury based on:
- The strength and sustainability of the business model.
- The strategic use and management of Intellectual Property.
- The quality of the IP commercialisation strategy.
- The level of innovation and internal IP culture.
- The contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Timeline and Key Dates
- Applications Open: 15 January 2026
- Deadline for Submissions: 31 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Announcement of Finalists: Second week of May 2026
- Awards Ceremony: July 2026, during the WIPO Assemblies in Geneva, Switzerland.
How to Apply
Applications for the WIPO Global Awards 2026 are open to all eligible startups and SMEs. Interested enterprises must complete the online application form in any of the official UN languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian).
Deadline: 31 March 2026.
Why You Should Apply for the WIPO Global Awards 2026
Winning or even being shortlisted for the WIPO Global Awards 2026 can transform your business visibility and growth trajectory. Beyond recognition, participants gain access to expert mentorship, potential investors, and global platforms that amplify their impact. This is an unparalleled opportunity for innovative entrepreneurs to showcase how Intellectual Property can shape a better future.
Application Links
👉 Read More about the Programme
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