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The 7th IP BASE AWARD: Promoting Startups Through Intellectual Property

The Japan Patent Office has announced the launch of the 7th IP BASE AWARD, set to recognize outstanding efforts in intellectual property (IP) initiatives within the startup ecosystem. Scheduled to begin accepting entries in late August 2025, this prestigious event aims to commend startups and their supporters who excel in IP practices.

Understanding the IP BASE AWARD

With the increasing importance of protecting and leveraging intellectual property in the startup world, the Japan Patent Office has established a comprehensive portal called IP BASE. Launched in December 2018, this community site serves as a resource hub for startups, providing essential knowledge and support related to IP strategies, initiatives, and events. The IP BASE AWARD, launched in 2019, is a crucial part of this ecosystem.

The core theme of the award centers on the formation of a robust domestic startup IP ecosystem, fostering both the dissemination of IP awareness and the promotion of community activities related to startups. The upcoming 2025 event will not only honor the best players in the field but also aim to inspire future growth among startups and their supporters by showcasing excellence within the IP domain.

Award Structure and Criteria

The IP BASE AWARD comprises two main categories:
1. Startup Category: Designed for unlisted startups established within the last ten years that engage in strategic IP activities. Startups will be evaluated based on their IP initiatives, including the number of applications submitted, the development of IP portfolios, and the establishment of internal support structures.

2. Startup Supporter Category: Open to individuals and organizations actively contributing to the startup ecosystem's IP development—such as attorneys, investors, accelerators, and researchers. Participants in this category will be judged on their effective strategies that enhance startups' IP capabilities while serving as role models for other supporters.

For both categories, nominations can be submitted either by oneself or through recommendations from peers. Recommendations can include up to three nominees (from three companies/organizations) for each category.

Awards Overview

The winners in each category will receive coveted trophies and special recognition on the IP BASE website. Noteworthy contributions will also be honored with:

• - Grand Prix Awards:

- In the Startup Category, one startup will be awarded based on a comprehensive evaluation process, which includes pitch assessments.
- In the Startup Supporter Category, up to two individuals or organizations may be awarded, based on their exemplary contributions to the community.

• - Encouragement Awards: Multiple winners may be recognized in both categories, focusing on those who demonstrate high potential for future success.

• - Audience Award: Voted on by public audience members during the pitch event in the Startup Category.

Judging Panel

The selection process will be overseen by a distinguished panel consisting of experts in the field, including:

• - Chairperson: Masahiro Samejima, Partner at Uchida & Samejima Law Office
• - Members: Tōru Akaura from Incubate Fund, Yukiko Kato from SBI Investment, Hiroshi Kawana from KDDI Corporation, and Yū Morita from Morita & Ohtani Patent Law Firm.

Looking Forward

In conclusion, the 7th IP BASE AWARD provides an excellent opportunity for startups and their supporters to shine in the arena of intellectual property. The initiation of entry submissions in August 2025 marks the beginning of a platform that encourages innovation and excellence in Japan's startup landscape. For more information on application details and past winners, please visit the IP BASE AWARD official website.

By recognizing exemplary IP practices, the IP BASE AWARD aims to cultivate a vibrant and thriving startup ecosystem in Japan, paving the way for future innovations and success.