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The 6th Intellectual Property Utilization Business Plan Contest

The Japan Patent Attorneys Association (JPAA) is thrilled to announce the upcoming 6th Intellectual Property Utilization Business Plan Contest for the fiscal year 2026. This exciting contest offers a chance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as startups, to showcase their innovative business concepts leveraging intellectual property (IP) in various forms, such as technology, branding, and design.

Contest Overview

In this contest, entrepreneurs focusing on leveraging their unique intellectual property for business innovation are encouraged to apply. Whether you currently operate a business that utilizes IP or have plans to implement one, your entry is welcome! Each contestant stands a chance to win substantial prizes, with the Grand Prize winner receiving 500,000 yen.

Categories and Awards

• - Grand Prize: 500,000 yen, along with a certificate and a trophy for one winner.
• - Runner-Up Prize: 300,000 yen, also with a certificate and trophy for one winner.
• - Special Prize: 150,000 yen with a certificate and trophy for one winner.
• - Encouragement Prize: 150,000 yen with a certificate and trophy for one winner (sponsored by the Japan Small Business Consultant Association).

Benefits for Winners

Winners of the contest will receive follow-up support from patent attorneys, aiding them in nurturing and developing their business ideas through intellectual property management.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Criteria

• - Open to small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and individuals aiming to start a business with innovative business plans that utilize intellectual property.
• - It's important to note that applicants do not need to have filed or received approval for patents, designs, or trademarks to apply.

Types of Business Plans Eligible

Participants can submit any business plan that adheres to either of the following criteria:

• - A: Plans utilizing new technologies, designs, or business models.
• - B: Plans that possess trademark rights (or those that plan to acquire them) for branding purposes.

Evaluation Process

A review committee comprised of patent attorneys will evaluate the submitted applications based on criteria including creativity, feasibility, and future potential. The evaluation will occur in two stages:
1. First Round: Document screening phase taking place from early to mid-October.
2. Second Round: Pitch review scheduled between mid-November and early December.

• - Award winners will be announced in early December.

How to Apply

Submission Deadline

• - Applications will be accepted until September 30, 2026.

Application Process

Interested candidates can download the application form from this URL and fill it out with the required information. Completed application forms should be submitted via email to the JPAA office at [email protected].

Important Notices

1. The content of applications will only be used for the contest evaluation and will not be disclosed for other purposes.
2. If selected as a winner, the applicant's name and project theme will be announced, maintaining confidentiality where necessary.
3. Any false statements discovered in submitted materials may result in the revocation of awards.
4. In case of submission errors, re-submission may be requested within a specified timeframe, or the application may be considered withdrawn.
5. Personal information provided will only be utilized for the contest.
6. Contestants should be cautious about not publicly disclosing details if planning for patent applications.
7. Participants are responsible for their own business research and expenses related to applying, including costs for preparing materials and travel.

About JPAA

Founded in May 1922, the Japan Patent Attorneys Association is dedicated to maintaining the dignity of patent attorneys and improving their services through training and research on the intellectual property system. The association is located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and actively engages in a variety of initiatives to support its members. For more information, visit their official website.