NEW YORK - As part of its continued efforts to promote and advance intellectual property (IP) as a key driver of innovation, the International Trademark Association (INTA) has opened registration for its third Open Innovation Challenge (OIC) as part of its 2024 Annual Meeting, taking place in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, from May 18 to 22, a press release stated by INTA.

The competition celebrates entrepreneurial spirit in three categories: early start-up, mid-sized start-up, and scale-ups. Entrants pitch and promote their business idea, technology innovation, or research application to the distinguished panel of judges, including experts in branding; brand valuation; business advisory services; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors; finance; IP law; and marketing.

Participating business owners and entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to network with other start-ups, scale-ups, and entrepreneurs and to gain invaluable insights from experts and peers.

INTA fosters innovation in accessible ways, to welcome the new generation of creators and entrepreneurs into the Association’s global network of brand owners and professionals and to help them protect their IP and grow their brands.

Allan Jarry, Managing Partner at JarryIP (Chile) and Stefanie Schodrof, Head of Business Development U.S. at Gevers (USA) have joined the panel of judges. Additional judges will be announced at a later date.

“Our involvement in INTA’s Open Innovation Challenge enhanced our comprehension of intellectual property. As a medical device start-up, this intellectual property is an integral part of our company,” said Aaron Glick, CEO of Ember Sleep (USA) upon winning the IOC last year in the mid-stage start-up category. “This experience offered a platform for us to learn from industry experts and fellow innovators, enhancing our position for long-term success in a dynamic landscape by providing a more comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of intellectual property rights.”

New this year is the option to participate in the OIC virtually. While appearing in person will extend participants’ ability to connect with peers and experts, the Competition has expanded its accessibility to those unable to travel to Atlanta for the Annual Meeting. The OIC welcomes applications from all industries and invites innovators from all over the world to participate. Applicants must submit all application materials by April 19, 2024.

The Shortlisted Finalists’ Pitch Presentation will take place on Sunday, May 19, both in person and virtually. The winner will be announced later that day as part of the Annual Meeting Opening Ceremonies.

INTA’s Annual Meeting is the largest gathering of IP professionals in the world. More than 10,000 brand owners and professionals, business leaders, academics, and government officials are expected to attend this year’s Meeting.
“INTA prides itself on engaging with the world in ways that showcase the power of IP to fuel innovation and creative problem-solving,” said INTA CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo. “We are proud to throw open the doors for the third Challenge and I, for one, look forward to learning what the next big idea is going to be!”