About the opportunity
The WIPO Scale Up Your IP Program for Women Innovators is a free online capacity-building program designed for women-led university spin-offs, research ventures and deep-tech startups seeking to leverage intellectual property (IP) to support commercialization, growth and investment readiness. This special edition supports women innovators developing technologies through university and research-based activities, helping them address technology transfer challenges and strengthen the role of IP in their commercialization journey. Through practical training, expert guidance and peer learning, participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to bring innovative technologies to market and build sustainable growth strategies.
Funding and benefits
- 1 introductory session on IP rights and the relevance for your venture
- 5 interactive training sessions led by IP and business experts
- Actionable factsheets and handouts to build your IP commercialization strategy
- Practical templates and tools to support spin-off growth
- Networking opportunities with peers, partners, and investors
- A chance to pitch in front of investors at the final event
- Certificate of participation (available to those who complete all sessions)
Who can apply?
- Be a woman founder, co-founder, inventor or lead innovator
- Be developing a deep-tech product (e.g. digital, science- or technology-based)
- Have a technology readiness level (TRL) of 4-8
- Have a venture ready to commercialize and scale
- Women founders and co-founders of university spin-offs and research-based ventures
- Women inventors and researchers from universities and research institutions looking to commercialize technologies and create spin-offs
When to apply
- Application deadline: August 30, 2026
- Introductory session: Online on demand, to be completed by September 8, 2026
- Modules 2-6: September 9 / 19 / 23 / 30, 2026 – October 7, 2026
- Final event: October 28, 2026
How to apply
- Apply online before the application deadline to secure a place.
Additional information
- Spaces are limited.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Women founders, co-founders, or lead innovators
- Those leading university spin-offs or deep-tech startups
- Innovators with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 4-8
What should you think carefully about?
- Spaces are limited, so early application is recommended
- Requires commitment to attend multiple interactive sessions between September and October 2026
- Participants must complete all sessions to receive a certificate
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program is perfect for women innovators aiming to bridge the gap between research and commercialization. It provides the necessary tools and expert guidance to build a sustainable IP strategy and prepare for investor engagement.
Our take
A strong fit for women-led deep-tech ventures seeking to scale; less suitable for those in the very early ideation phase or those unable to dedicate time to the full training schedule.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
