EIT and EUIPO strengthen cooperation

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) are strengthening their collaboration in protecting and leveraging intellectual property (IP) and in March 2026, they have agreed on a 2026 Annual Work Plan, following on strong results achieved last year.

Building on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2025, the 2026 work plan outlines a series of joint activities designed to expand IP awareness, training and support to for EU´s innovation ecosystem focusing on equipping entrepreneurs, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage and protect intellectual assets.

The plan also includes a range of initiatives targeting different communities across the EIT ecosystem, including IP training for SMEs and startups participating in programmes such as EIT Jumpstarter, as well as dedicated sessions for women entrepreneurs and young innovators. Activities will also support the EIT youth education community and initiatives promoting STEM skills and innovation education.

Over the year 2025, the collaboration delivered 54 joint activities, including 13 joint events and 8 IP training sessions, reaching more than 3 100 direct participants across the EIT Community and beyond. Cooperation also included the first EIT–EUIPO staff exchange and joint participation in events. The continued collaboration between the EIT and EUIPO highlights the importance of partnerships in advancing Europe’s innovation agenda. 

2025 Results Factsheet

More information is in the EIT News.