World Intellectual Property Day

Inventors, creators, entrepreneurs and innovators often live on the cutting edge of what’s new in society. World Intellectual Property Day seeks to celebrate and honor these individuals, while raising awareness about the need for every creator to be involved with the system of intellectual property. 

History of World Intellectual Property Day

Celebrated for more than two decades, the idea for World Intellectual Property Day got its start in 1988 when it was proposed by the National Algerian Institute for Industrial Property as part of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The initiative was a bit slow moving and didn’t gain traction until 1999, when it was agreed that establishing the day would be ideal as a commemoration for the 30th anniversary of the WIPO.

The date for celebrating World Intellectual Property Day was chosen in honor of the anniversary of the Convention Establishing the World Intellectual Property Organization that took place more than fifty years ago, in 1970.

Behind World Intellectual Property Day (also called World IP Day) is the purpose of raising awareness about the importance of understanding how copyrights, trademarks, patents and designs have an effect on everyday life. In addition, the hope for the day is that it will be used to celebrate the creativity and innovation that is made by contributors and creators as economies are developed and grown across the planet.

Each year, this day is celebrated by choosing a theme that reflects various aspects of the topic. Some themes from past years have included:

• Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity (2023)
• IP and Youth: Innovating for a Better Future (2022)
• Reach for Gold: IP and Sports (2019)
• Digital Creativity: Culture Reimagined (2016)

How to Celebrate World Intellectual Property Day

Show some appreciation for and celebrate World Intellectual Property Day by getting creative on your own, or implementing some of these ideas in observance of the day:

Enjoy the World IP Day Competition

Each year, a video competition takes place in celebration of World Intellectual Property Day where individuals can submit their 90 second videos that feature the importance of the annual theme. In 2023, the theme circled around the reasons why it is vital for women and girls to be involved with and understanding of intellectual property. Check out the videos of past winners and finalists on the WIPO website. In addition, the website also features a gallery that features folks from around the world who are innovative and breaking ground with their new and creative ideas. 

Create a World IP Day Campaign

Those who are interested in not only learning more themselves but improving knowledge about intellectual property in their community can certainly participate in World Intellectual Property Day! Get started by organizing an event for local community members, business leaders, government representatives, and others. Educational materials, lectures, webinars and more can be included in the celebration of the day, including ideas like starting a mentoring program, giving a voice to local inventors and creators, or focusing on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Check out the WIPO website for more ideas!