The Albanian startup and innovation ecosystem is transforming exponentially. However, Intellectual and Industrial Property is a topic on which startups still need to be informed. Through the acceleration programs on Intellectual and Industrial Property, startups in Albania can increase the potential of economic development and innovation to position Albania as an advanced innovation hub in the region.
The protection of a Startup’s Intellectual and Industrial Property, in addition to trademark registration or patenting, includes a branding strategy and protection in case of rights infringement.
The IP4Startups program, which will directly support several Albanian startups on Intellectual and Industrial Property, is implemented by the General Directorate of Industrial Property (GDIP) with the support of the Albanian-Swiss Intellectual Property Project (ALSIP).
The objective of the IP4Startups program is to support 10 Albanian startups to reach their potential and provide them with personalized support to effectively register and protect their intellectual and industrial property assets including capacity building, personalized consultancy, registration free of charge of trademarks and the design of branding or rebranding packages, to have a competitive advantage and differentiation in the market.
About the program
IP4Startups will offer a comprehensive accelerator program tailored to the specific needs of innovative startups. Selected participants will gain access to a range of resources and support mechanisms aimed at enhancing their understanding of intellectual property, implementing effective IP strategies, and leveraging their innovations for sustainable growth.
To address specific needs, participants will find guidance and support starting from the design of growth and branding strategies, brand registration to intellectual property management. The program aims to support 10 startups in Albania, which will benefit free of charge from personalized support throughout the program.
What the program offers:
- Workshops/trainings: Startups will participate in informative workshops on branding, intellectual property, and various topics related to the protection of intellectual property;
- Diagnostics of Intellectual and Industrial Property (WIPO IP diagnostics);
- Personalised report from GDIP: A custom preliminary report from GDIP on each startup’s intellectual property assets and branding strategy;
- Personalized Branding/Rebranding Package: Each startup of the program will benefit from personalized “Branding/Rebranding Package” support;
- Dedicated Mentoring Sessions: Program experts will provide dedicated mentoring sessions to program startups;
- Trademark registration: Direct support for trademark registration and protection;
- Networking: Networking events, access to investors, mentors, project donors, and important actors of the startup ecosystem to foster new collaborations.
Application Criteria
We are looking for innovative startups that want to grow and reach new levels of development. To become part of the program, startups must meet the following criteria:
- Startups must be legally registered in Albania and have a VAT number;
- Be in the early stages of development (from 6 to 36 months);
- To have growth and expansion potential in regional/international markets;
- To have innovative solutions that incorporate new digital technologies;
- Applicants must have at least a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or a demonstrable prototype. An advantage is given to startups that are in the launch/sales phase of their products;
- To consist of dynamic teams, with rich CVs and committed to engaging in every activity of the program.
- To have addressed the needs and challenges related to Intellectual and Industrial Property as clearly and concretely as possible.
The evaluation committee will be based on the above criteria throughout the evaluation. The beneficiaries of this program will mainly be startups which, in addition to meeting the above criteria best, also fit the objectives of the program.
Applications open: 01st of August 2024
Application Deadline: 31st of August 2024 Program Timeline: 15th of September -24th of October 2024
Apply here: https://forms.gle/rSXjMbYY2DYaw3W98
Applicants will be notified by September 14th , 2024 on the status of their application
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