MSMEs receive first intensive WIPO-IPOPHL mentoring to build IP strategies
13 February 2026
Over 20 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from all over the country are set to maximize their business value from the recently launched Intellectual Property Management Clinic (IPMC), a joint initiative led by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) that will provide MSMEs strategic one-on-one mentoring sessions for their development of intellectual property strategies for long-term competitiveness.
The four-month programme, running until May, provides MSMEs with intensive training and coaching by IP experts to help them develop tailored, sector-specific IP strategies. Through sector-specific guidance, participating enterprises are supported in adopting best practices in IP auditing, management, protection and enforcement – key to scaling operations and entering new markets.
IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo highlighted the programme’s importance as MSMEs remain central to the Philippine economy, accounting for over 99 percent of business establishments and more than 66 percent of total employment in 2024.
“MSMEs can raise their innovative capabilities by maximizing the use of their IP assets while protecting their IP rights. IP assets have a value that is translatable to their equity or market value,” said Arevalo. “Harnessing the potential of your IPs would strengthen your position in the markets, from local to global, while stimulating your entrepreneurial growth.”
Launched by WIPO in 2022 and rolled out in several countries, the IPMC supports innovative companies in aligning their IP strategies with business goals and unlocking the full value of their intangible assets.
“Behind every statistic, there are real entrepreneurs. For them, IP is the bridge from invention to investment, from creativity to commercial success,” said Guy Pessach, a director at the IP for Business Division of WIPO’s IP and Innovation Ecosystems Sector.
“The IPMC is a game-changer for companies. It is also a game-changer for us in the way we work with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and support them. The Philippines has a vibrant SME sector – from fashion, crafts and food products to creative industries and technology startups. We are proud to support these businesses in unlocking the full value of their ideas and creativity.”
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
