Innovation thrives on fresh perspectives—and women are bringing those in abundance across every sector. As entrepreneurs, scientists, designers, and technologists, women are building impactful solutions to some of today’s most urgent challenges. Yet despite this momentum, many still face barriers when it comes to protecting their ideas. That’s where intellectual property (IP) becomes a powerful tool.
For women entrepreneurs, IP is more than just legal protection—it’s a foundation for growth. Patents can help safeguard technical inventions, trademarks establish brand identity, and design rights protect unique aesthetics. These protections not only deter imitation but also signal value to potential investors, partners, and consumers.
More women-led ventures are now recognizing the strategic advantage of IP. It levels the playing field, allowing early-stage startups to compete with larger players and enabling innovators to commercialize their work on their own terms. As IP becomes part of the entrepreneurial toolkit, it’s helping women scale their ideas from local impact to global reach.
Take, for example, the increasing number of women in biotech and digital health who are using patents to secure groundbreaking technologies. Or social entrepreneurs protecting the design of eco-friendly products that promote sustainability. These innovators aren’t just building businesses— they’re driving change.
However, challenges persist. Globally, women remain underrepresented in the IP system. According to WIPO, less than 20% of international patent applications list a woman among the inventors. Factors like limited access to legal resources, mentorship, and funding often contribute to this gap. Many women founders also lack awareness of how IP can serve their venture from the very beginning.
Closing this gap means ensuring that women have access to the tools and support they need to innovate confidently. This includes access to IP
education, simplified filing processes, inclusive policies, and stronger representation in innovation ecosystems.
At IP Edge, we believe that recognising and supporting women in innovation is essential to building a more equitable and dynamic future. This month, we’re proud to spotlight the journeys of women who are leveraging IP to bring bold ideas to life—because when women protect their ideas, they don’t just claim ownership. They claim space, influence, and impact.
