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The IP Management Clinic (IPMC) is a joint initiative of WIPO and IPOPHL designed to help innovative MSMEs and startups strengthen their use of IP across their business cycle, from product development and branding to commercialization and international expansion.

Through hands-on mentoring, diagnostic assessments, and customized IP strategy reports, the program equips participating enterprises with practical, actionable guidance that improves competitiveness and long-term business value.

The 2026 edition will run from February 1 to May 30, 2026, combining in-person sessions, online mentoring, and targeted workshops.

Program Format/Timeline

In-Person Launch & Mentoring (February 2026)

  • One full day launch event and training.
  • Three days of deep-dive, one-on-one sessions with selected MSMEs and startups.

Remote Mentorship (February–May 2026)

  • Two personalized online mentoring sessions per company.
  • One virtual training workshop for all participants.

IP Strategy Report (May 2026)

  • Each MSME-mentee receives a customized IP Strategy Report (2–3 pages) containing strategic recommendations and a roadmap for stronger IP management.

Benefits

For MSMEs / Startups

  • Tailored guidance on strengthening IP portfolios, branding, commercialization, and risk management.
  • Expert insights on integrating IP into market expansion and investment readiness.
  • Access to WIPO tools, diagnostics, and international best practices.
  • Improved competitiveness in local and global markets.

For IP Experts

  • Opportunity to work directly with promising Philippine MSMEs and startups.
  • Collaboration with WIPO and IPOPHL on a high-visibility international program.
  • Contribution to national capacity-building through mentorship and case development.

Qualifications

Beneficiary MSME-Mentee / Startup

Applicants must be registered MSMEs or startups operating in the Philippines with a product, technology, or service containing innovative, creative, or IP-relevant features.

  • Registered business in the Philippines (DTI/SEC/CDA).
  • Product, technology, or creative output with market traction or demonstrable potential.
  • Clear business model and direction.
  • Interest in integrating IP into business strategy (prior IP registrations are not required).
  • At least two representatives who can attend all mentoring sessions and workshops.
  • Ability to disclose non-confidential information relevant to business and IP status.
  • Willingness to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the assigned expert.

Ideal Candidate Profiles

  • MSMEs with ongoing branding, product development, R&D, or export initiatives.
  • Startups preparing for investment, grants, or technology commercialization.
  • Creative or digital enterprises scaling their IP assets (e.g., design, software, content).
  • Companies participating in incubators, accelerators, or TBI/HEI programs.

IP Experts / Mentor

IP experts will provide one-on-one advisory support, conduct workshops, and prepare IP strategy recommendations. WIPO will contract selected experts under the terms outlined in the TOR.

  • Strong knowledge of intellectual property and business strategy, particularly in SME contexts.
  • Proven experience advising companies—both local and international—on IP management and strategic use of IP.
  • Demonstrated experience in mentoring programs, incubation projects, or advisory services similar to WIPO’s IPMC in ASEAN or comparable environments.
  • Deep understanding of ASEAN business landscapes, IP practices, and sector-specific innovation challenges.
  • Excellent communication skills in English; local language proficiency is a plus.
  • Ability to produce high-quality written reports and actionable recommendations.

Preferred Experience

  • Working with startups, high-growth enterprises, creative industries, green technologies, or export-ready companies.
  • Background in technology transfer, commercialization, branding strategy, or IP valuation.
  • Experience using WIPO tools (IP Diagnostics, IP for Business guides, etc.) is an advantage.

Expected Commitments

For MSME-Mentees

  • Attend all in-person and online mentoring sessions.
  • Participate in one virtual workshop.
  • Provide relevant business and IP information needed for assessment.
  • Implement and test recommended IP strategies where feasible.
  • Provide feedback to WIPO/IPOPHL for program evaluation.

For IP Experts

  • Conduct 1 in-person mentoring session and 2 virtual mentoring sessions per assigned company.
  • Prepare a concise, customized IP Strategy Report for each company.
  • Deliver a 90-minute virtual workshop.
  • Support the 4-day in-person training and mentoring sessions.
  • Maintain confidentiality and comply with WIPO publicity rules.

Application

For MSME-Mentees

Send Expression of Interest form to itso@ipophl.gov.ph

 

For IP Experts/Mentors

Send letter of interest detailing experiences in IP to itso@ipophl.gov.ph