#Japan #Intellectual Property #Chiyoda #Japan Patent Office #Business Contest

The 5th Intellectual Property Utilization Business Plan Contest

The Japan Patent Attorneys Association (located in Chiyoda, Tokyo) is excited to announce the launch of the 5th Intellectual Property Utilization Business Plan Contest, offering a Grand Prix prize of 500,000 yen. This contest encourages small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups to leverage their innovations in technology, branding, and design.

Objective of the Contest

The primary goal is to discover and nurture promising business ideas that effectively utilize intellectual property (IP). Entrants will have the opportunity to develop their plans further through follow-up support from professionals in the field. This initiative is aimed at fostering creativity and growth in the Japanese business landscape.

Who Can Apply?

The contest is open to:

• - Small to medium enterprises (SMEs)
• - Startups (ventures)
• - Individuals intending to start a business

Eligibility Requirements:
Participants must have an active or planned business plan that utilizes intellectual property, such as technology, branding, or design. Importantly, applicants do not need to have filed for or obtained patents, designs, or trademarks.

Business Plan Categories

Entries should fall into one of the following categories:

A. Utilize New Technologies, Designs, or Business Models

Plans that incorporate innovative approaches that set them apart in the marketplace.

B. Branding through Obtained Trademarks

Plans that have acquired trademarks or are in the process of doing so, focused on brand identity and recognition.

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions will be reviewed by a judging panel that includes patent attorneys. Evaluations will be based on:

• - Originality
• - Feasibility
• - Future potential

Important Dates

• - Submission Period: October 1-15 (initial document review)
• - Secondary Review (Pitch Evaluation): Mid-November to Early December
• - Winners Announced: Early December

Prizes and Additional Benefits

Prizes:

• - Grand Prix: 500,000 yen, certificate of award, and commemorative trophy (1 winner)
• - Runner-Up: 300,000 yen, certificate of award, and commemorative trophy (1 winner)
• - Special Prize: 150,000 yen, certificate of award, and commemorative trophy (1 winner)
• - Encouragement Prize: 150,000 yen, certificate of award, and commemorative trophy (1 winner)

Winners will receive additional benefits, including:

• - Support for business development from patent attorneys and expertise in IP management.

Submission Instructions

Deadline for Applications: September 30, 2023
How to Apply: Download the application form from the link below and complete the necessary information:
Application Form

Submit your completed application form via email to the Japan Patent Attorneys Association:
Email: [email protected]

Important Notes for Applicants

1. All application materials will be used solely for contest evaluations.
2. Successful candidates' details may be published, but confidentiality will be prioritized.
3. If any false information is found in submissions, awards may be revoked.
4. Incomplete applications may require resubmission within a specified deadline.
5. Information from applications will not be used for any purpose other than the contest.
6. Avoid disclosing any secrets if planning to file for patent protection.
7. Contestants should conduct their own market research as the association does not guarantee absence of prior art.
8. Applicants will bear all expenses related to their submission.

About the Japan Patent Attorneys Association

Founded: May 1922
Location: 3-2-6 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, Japan
The Japan Patent Attorneys Association aims to elevate the standards and duties of patent attorneys through ongoing training, guidance, and supervising activities. Its various roles include research and educational outreach on the intellectual property system.

For more information, visit Japan Patent Attorneys Association.