On 12 October 2026, WIPO, the World Intellectual Property Organisation, announced the first three winners of its ‘City of Innovation’ award from among 15 finalists. The award recognises the ambition and credibility of their commitment to fostering innovation and creativity within their regions.
Each city draws on its own resources. Charleroi is relying on its A6K-E6K innovation and training hub to attract tech start-ups, develop skills and support innovators in bringing their ideas to market. Liverpool plans to strengthen links among universities, businesses, public authorities and residents. Shanghai aims to expand training and support in intellectual property and to bring researchers, entrepreneurs and investors closer together.
These projects give intellectual property a concrete and central role in local innovation policies. The protection of creative works and their commercial exploitation are among the services that cities aim to make more accessible.
For a local authority, supporting innovation requires action on several fronts. Infrastructure provides a home for projects, training develops skills, networks facilitate connections, and IP support helps businesses protect and exploit their creations. The commitments made by the three winning cities bring these elements together, with a focus on resident participation.
WIPO plans to document the initiatives and monitor the implementation of the commitments. Charleroi, Liverpool and Shanghai will form the core of a network, which will expand as the initiative progresses. It will be interesting to see how their projects translate into action and which experiences could be replicated elsewhere.
At Brandon IP, we support businesses in protecting, defending and maximising the value of their IP rights. We’re watching this support play an increasingly prominent role in regional innovation policies.
Contact our teams to find out more.
