Over 20 MSMEs from across the country are participating in the Intellectual Property Management Clinic, a four-month program that provides intensive one-on-one coaching to help firms build tailored IP strategies aligned with business growth objectives.
Why it matters
For MSMEs, intellectual property is increasingly seen as a core business asset rather than a legal afterthought.
By integrating IP auditing, management, protection and enforcement into day-to-day operations, firms are better positioned to expand production, attract investment and compete in new markets.
What they’re learning
Through sector-specific mentoring, participating enterprises are being guided on how to identify valuable IP assets, manage them strategically and protect them as they scale.
The program emphasizes practical tools that help businesses reduce risks while supporting commercialization and expansion.
IPOPHL Acting Director General Nathaniel S. Arevalo underscored the importance of embedding these best practices early, noting that 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,” Arevalo said in a press statement.
“Harnessing the potential of your IPs would strengthen your position in the markets, from local to global, while stimulating your entrepreneurial growth.”
The global angle
Launched by WIPO in 2022 and rolled out in several countries, the IP Management Clinic is designed to help innovative companies align IP strategies with long-term business goals.
Wipo officials say this alignment is critical for MSMEs seeking to move beyond local markets.
“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, director at WIPO’s IP for Business Division. He described the clinic as a “game changer” in how institutions support SMEs.
What’s next
The Philippines program kicked off with multi-day in-person sessions featuring lectures, panels and deep-dive workshops, followed by online consultations in the coming months.
IPOPHL officials said the sustained mentoring model is meant to ensure MSMEs can apply IP best practices as they grow, manage risks and pursue expansion opportunities at home and abroad.
The bottom line
By institutionalizing IP best practices, MSMEs are laying the groundwork for scalable growth and smoother entry into new markets, turning ideas and creativity into durable business value. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
