AEIP and Africa IP SME Helpdesk launch webinar series on intellectual property

AEIP and Africa IP SME Helpdesk launch webinar series on intellectual property

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups drive innovation but often face resource constraints for intellectual property (IP). In response to this issue, the Africa-Europe Innovation Platform (AEIP) and the Africa IP SME Helpdesk have launched a dedicated series of webinars. These sessions are tailored specifically to the needs of smaller businesses, providing practical guidance to help them protect their innovations, navigate IP challenges and leverage IP as a strategic asset for growth and competitiveness.

The webinars will equip SMEs and start-ups with the knowledge and tools they need to implement structured IP strategies, expand into new markets, attract investment and secure a competitive edge in both local and international markets.

Webinar schedule

The series includes four webinars covering key IP topics:

• Navigating international IP and market entry requirements (22 April 2026);
• Developing an IP strategy and management system for business growth (June 2026);
• Assessing and valuing IP for investment and financing (September 2026);
• Legal and regulatory guidance on IP protection and enforcement (November 2026).

Webinar 1 – Navigating international IP and market entry requirements (22 April 2026)

The first seminar will take place online on Wednesday 22 April 2026 from 10:30-11:30(CET). It will guide participants through the essentials of IP and its strategic value for SMEs and start-ups. The presentation will begin with a clear introduction to IP basics, helping businesses understand patents, trade marks, industrial designs, copyrights, etc. and why careful management of these assets is crucial for staying competitive.

Participants will then explore international IP frameworks and market entry considerations, learning about the key treaties and agreements that influence IP protection across Africa. 

The session will also cover practical procedural steps and best practices, showing SMEs how to register and manage IP effectively using national, regional and international frameworks, such as the Madrid System.

During the webinar, a case study section will allow attendees to engage directly with experts and ask questions. This will enable them to apply these insights to their own business situations and will ensure a highly practical and actionable learning experience.

About the Africa IP SME Helpdesk

The Africa IP SME Helpdesk provides free, confidential and practical support to African SMEs and start-ups on all aspects of intellectual property (IP). Implemented by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), the Helpdesk helps businesses protect innovations, navigate IP regulations, and leverage IP to grow and compete both locally and internationally.