IP for Growth Awards 2026
A regional awards platform recognising enterprises and individuals that use intangible assets and intellectual property (IA/IP) strategically to create value, strengthen competitiveness and drive growth.

Recognising IA/IP-led growth across Asia
The IP for Growth Awards (IPGA) celebrate enterprises and young innovators that use intangible assets (IA) and intellectual property (IP) strategically - not only to protect ideas, but to create value, enter new markets, build trusted brands, secure partnerships and strengthen competitive advantage.
From early-stage startups to scaling enterprises, IPGA spotlight a diverse range of IA/IP-led growth stories across the region. These may include technology, brand, design, data, copyright, trade secrets, licensing, platform or partnership-led models.
Submissions are assessed across three core dimensions:
IA/IP Assets and Strategy
IA/IP-enabled Growth
Impact
Whether your edge comes from patents, trade marks, designs, copyright, data, know-how, trade secrets or licensed rights, the Awards are looking for clear evidence of how you use IA/IP to grow.
Nominations for IP for Growth Awards 2026 are now closed.
Watch this space for more details on IPGA 2027!
For further enquiries, please contact our team at ipgaenquiry@iposinternational.com.
WHY NOMINATE
Why nominate?
The IP for Growth Awards is designed for enterprises and innovators with a strong story of how their strategic use of IA/IP to support growth, differentiation and impact.
Gain regional recognition for IA/IP-led growth
Be recognised for using IA/IP not just for protection, but for commercial growth, market expansion and real-world outcomes.Build credibility with customers, partners and investors
Award recognition can strengthen your story with stakeholders who value innovation, trust and strategic use of IA/IP.Be part of Singapore's regional IA/IP ecosystem
Finalists and winners will be connected to a platform that brings together enterprises, partners and IA/IP ecosystem leaders across the region.Amplify your growth story
Winners may be profiled through IPGA communications, media features and IP Week Singapore platforms.
Prizes include:
Official IPGA winner title, trophy and certificate
3-day Singapore IP Week 2026 experience package (includes access to the IPGA Awards Ceremony and 2D Global Forum on IP), with overseas winners additionally receiving airfare and accommodation support (economy return air tickets and three nights’ stay at selected partner hotels).
Regional profiling through IPGA channels, partner amplification and storytelling opportunities
Networking access with IPGA judges, government, investors, IA/IP experts and ecosystem partners
Complimentary tailored Connect @ IP Grow consultations at Singapore IP Week 2026
Showcase opportunities at Singapore IP Week 2026, including an exhibit feature, subject to final event planning
AWARD CATEGORIES
Multiple categories. One common ambition.
Each category is calibrated to the applicant's stage, so a first-time founder and a scaling enterprise are assessed on evidence that is relevant to where they are on the growth journey. Judges will look for clear, credible and evidence-based submissions that connect IA/IP strategy to growth, competitiveness and impact.
Emerging Champions
Early-stage enterprises and startups incorporated for 10 years or less as at 6 May 2026, building strong brands and/or technology portfolios through IP, with clear evidence of IP-backed innovation.
Best suited for: Pre-revenue or early-revenue enterprises with early commercial traction and a credible IA/IP strategy.
Assessment: IA/IP Assets and Strategy - 50%; IA/IP-enabled Growth - 30%; Impact - 20%.
Growth Champions
SMEs and scaling enterprises leveraging IA/IP to expand across markets and strengthen competitive advantage.
Best suited for: Enterprises with an established revenue base, growing teams, and regional or international expansion ambitions.
Assessment: IA/IP Assets and Strategy - 40%; IA/IP-enabled Growth - 35%; Impact - 25%.
Young Innovator
Individuals aged 35 and below as at 6 May 2026 who harness IA and/or IP to turn innovative ideas into ventures or real-world solutions with meaningful economic, environmental and/or social impact.
Best suited for: Early-stage innovators with credible IA/IP thinking, evidence of progress, and a compelling case for economic, environmental or social impact.
Assessment: IA/IP Assets and Strategy - 7 points; IA/IP-enabled Growth - 7 points; Impact - 7 points. Total = 21 points
ELIGIBILITY
Who should apply?
IPGA are open to eligible enterprises and individuals operating in, or meaningfully engaged with, ASEAN and Asian markets. Applicants should be able to show how their IA/IP supports their innovation, business model, growth or impact story.
IA/IP basis
Applicants should demonstrate at least one relevant IA/IP basis, such as:
registered IP rights, such as patents, trade marks or designs
copyright, data, know-how, trade secrets or other documented intangible assets
licensed, assigned or contractually controlled rights that support commercialisation
Category-specific guidance
Emerging Champions
Early-stage enterprises and startups incorporated for 10 years or less as at 6 May 2026, building strong brands and/or technology portfolios through IP, with clear evidence of IP-backed innovation.
Business registration document
Growth Champions
SMEs and scaling enterprises leveraging IA/IP to expand across markets and strengthen competitive advantage.
Business registration document
Young Innovators
Individuals aged 35 and below as at 6 May 2026 who harness IA and/or IP to turn innovative ideas into ventures or real-world solutions with meaningful economic, environmental and/or social impact.
Proof of age
Integrity and disclosure
Applicants must disclose any IA/IP ownership disputes, infringement or invalidity challenges, significant regulatory findings, or legal restrictions that could affect the claims in their submission. Non-disclosure may affect eligibility or final award determination.
Ready to tell your IP growth story?
Submit your nominations today and share your IA/IP growth story on a regional stage.
Nominations for IP for Growth Awards 2026 are now closed.
Watch this space for more details on IPGA 2027!
Hear what our judges have to say
The IPGA serves as an essential guide that highlights how intellectual property can be transformed into an active driver of business value. Many companies innovate, but the real challenge lies in commercialising that innovation across diverse markets. This platform recognises those who have successfully navigated the complexities of IA/IP to fuel regional expansion. By celebrating these success stories, the IPGA provides a necessary roadmap and inspiration for the wider SME community.— Ang Yuit, President, Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME)

Across our portfolio and the wider ecosystem, we see a new generation of Asian startups whose competitive edge is built on proprietary innovation. Yet many of these founders remain under-recognised for the IA/IP foundations underpinning their growth. The IPGA fills that gap. By spotlighting enterprises that deploy intangible assets strategically to scale regionally, the awards give investors, corporates, and policymakers a credible signal of where real innovation is happening, and they encourage the next cohort of founders to build IP-led businesses from day one. That is good for the entire venture ecosystem.— Chua Kee Lock, CEO, Vertex Holdings

IPGA is a great platform because it recognizes companies that treat IA/IP as a growth engine and shines a spotlight on businesses across Asia that are using innovation, brand value and intangible assets in smart, commercially meaningful ways. This initiative raises awareness among the business community of how strategic IA/IP management can make a significant impact to its value, and inspire many to continue to develop and harness these important growth drivers.— Catherine Lee, Senior Partner, Dentons Rodyk & Davidson LLP

As a former startup owner and now an angel investor, I am always interested in companies that have figured out a real edge. That edge could be technology, brand, data, know-how, customer trust or a business model that compounds over time. What excites me about IPGA 2026 is seeing companies that are not just innovative, but who are using intangible assets to grow revenue, expand markets and build durable value.— Lim Der Shing, Co-founder and Partner, AngelCentral

In a world where disruption can sometimes outpace regulation and competitive advantage can shift quickly, intangible assets and intellectual property are increasingly defining enterprise value, market leadership and long-term competitiveness. The organisations that will lead the future are not just innovating faster, but governing, protecting and scaling their ideas more effectively. What I find especially compelling about IPGA 2026 is the opportunity to recognise companies that are transforming innovation into intellectual property, business resilience and sustainable growth, while spotlighting the role governance plays in turning ideas into enduring advantage.— Emily Poon, CEO, Singapore Institute of Directors (SID)

Across the region, there is growing interest in innovation, technology, and brand building, yet the role of IA/IP in supporting business growth is not always fully understood. In many cases, it is still viewed through a legal or compliance lens. That is why platforms like IPGA are important. By spotlighting enterprises and innovators that are successfully leveraging IA/IP to grow, expand, and create impact, IPGA helps make these journeys more visible. When founders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders can learn from real examples, it encourages a deeper appreciation of how IA can contribute to long-term growth and value creation.— Mega Prawita, Managing Director, KUMPUL

2026 winners
This year, 12 enterprises and innovators are recognised through the IPGA and WIPO National Award for WIPO Users. Spanning AI, climate tech, food tech, infocomm tech, wellness and health, retail, lifestyle and more, they demonstrate that there is no single path to growth.
Young Innovator
Dr Lim Kang Hui, CRecTech Pte Ltd
INNOVATION & IMPACT
CRecTech develops modular systems that convert methane and carbon dioxide in biogas from palm oil waste into renewable methanol for ships and other energy users. Its proprietary catalyst simplifies a conventional four-step process to two, making smaller on-site plants more practical. The venture has raised close to S$5 million, secured more than seven industry partnerships and is preparing a pilot with Pertamina in Indonesia.
Emerging Champions
Axium Industries Group
INNOVATION & IMPACT
AXIUM Industries develops an industrial AI platform that connects operational data across factories, supply chains and business systems. This helps industrial companies automate complex workflows and make faster decisions. Its proprietary technology enables manufacturers, maritime operators and other businesses to improve productivity by automating procurement, inventory and reporting tasks in weeks rather than months. Within its first six months, AXIUM became profitable, crossed seven-figure revenue and secured more than 10 enterprise clients.
Kopi Near Me Pte Ltd
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Kopi Near Me makes authentic Nanyang kopi available through smart automated machines. Its breakthrough tackles a stubborn problem: beans roasted with butter and sugar leave an oily, sticky residue that clogs ordinary grinders. What keeps the machines running consistently are proprietary formulations, calibration and maintenance capabilities. The result? More than 160 deployments serving 7,000 cups a day. Offices, bakeries, retailers and landlords can offer familiar local coffee without operating a staffed drinks counter.
LOCA Company Limited
INNOVATION & IMPACT
LOCA connects ride-hailing, electric-vehicle charging and digital payments in a single platform for Laos. Its technology helps residents and visitors travel reliably while enabling cashless payments through LOCA Pay with local merchants. The ecosystem has grown to serve more than 600,000 users, support 16,000 EV drivers enable over 50,000 SMEs to participate in digital commerce. LOCA also estimates that its electric-mobility network has helped avoid more than 10 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions.
Natural Trace
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Natural Trace helps food and supplement companies verify what is inside a product—not only what its label or paperwork claims. A food-safe, non-GMO probiotic-based identifier is placed directly into the product, detected through a PCR test and connected to a digital record. This gives brands a physical way to uncover substitution, dilution or tampering. Its solution has already been applied to more than 200 million supplement tablets and over 7 hectares of agricultural deployments.
Tatsu Maker Works Pte Ltd
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Tatsu Maker Works turns original linocut art inspired by Singapore’s hawker stalls, neighbourhoods and food culture into premium apparel, tote bags and prints. Each design begins with photography, hand-carved printing plates and individually printed artwork before being adapted for merchandise. This slow, distinctive process offers an alternative to generic Singapore souvenirs. Revenue grew 372% over two years, with about 1,000 products and artworks sold through studios, retailers, pop-ups, e-commerce and collaborations.
Growth Champions
Jio Platforms Limited
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Jio Platforms developed an end-to-end 5G technology stack spanning radio networks, core infrastructure, automation and fixed wireless access. By owning and integrating these capabilities, Jio reduces reliance on multiple external vendors while operating its networks efficiently at national scale. Today, its technology supports a subscriber base of more than 506 million. Its affordable connectivity has expanded access to digital education, financial services, healthcare and commerce across urban, rural and semi-urban India.
Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy (Group) Co Ltd
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Mengniu develops dairy and nutrition products ranging from everyday milk and ice cream to patented probiotics and specialised formulas. Its research teams turn scientific discoveries into products such as SugarGuard, which combines protected probiotic strains and plant formulations designed to support blood-sugar management. Mengniu reports 5,000+ patent filings and about RMB82.2 billion in annual revenue, while its Aice ice-cream business reaches roughly 400,000 retail outlets in Indonesia, extending product access into rural communities.
RISIS Private Limited
INNOVATION & IMPACT
RISIS turns natural orchids into lasting jewellery and lifestyle pieces by coating each bloom in 24K Swiss Gold. Its proprietary plating process preserves the orchid’s delicate form, while cyanide-free, hypoallergenic formulas in production improve safety for wearers. Purpose-driven collections like Re-Bloom and Re:Born reflect this sustainable craftsmanship by giving imperfect orchids a second life. Backed by five decades of brand heritage and creativity, the company has expanded its E-commerce reach beyond Singapore across US, Europe and Asia since 2024.
Wilhelm Hauffmann & Company Pte Ltd
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Wilhelm Hauffmann & Company stewards Eagle Brand, a Singapore consumer-healthcare name dating to circa 1916. Its medicated oils, aromatherapy products, massage oils and repellents combine closely guarded formulations with instantly recognisable bottles, packaging and multilingual branding. More than 15 million genuine bottles are sold annually today, while Cap Lang cajuput oil has surpassed one billion bottles sold. Active enforcement also helps consumers distinguish authentic products from imitations across regional markets.
Global Mention
The LEGO Group
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Founded in 1932 as a wooden toy manufacturer, the LEGO Group has evolved into one of the world's most recognized brands through continuous innovation, creativity and strategic intellectual property stewardship. Central to this growth is the LEGO® System in Play. With its foundation in LEGO bricks, it allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine, creating an enduring platform for innovation across generations. From the LEGO brick to digital experiences, gaming, publishing, entertainment content and SMART Play™ experiences, the company has leveraged innovation and collaborations to create new ways for people to engage with play. Today, LEGO® play experiences reach children and adults in more than 120 countries, helping to develop creativity, problem-solving, confidence and lifelong learning skills while delivering positive impact beyond play.
WIPO National Award for WIPO Users
Razer Inc.
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Founded in 2005, Razer™ has shaped gaming into a global lifestyle experience through its distinctive brand identity, product design, and gamer-focused ecosystem. Its triple-headed snake trademark is one of the most recognized logos in the global gaming and esports communities. With more than 250 million users of its award-winning gaming peripherals, laptops, and software solutions, Razer’s distinctive design and brand identity demonstrate how intangible assets can create a recognisable proposition and support growth in global markets.
Media Features
Asia IP Law: 26 May 2026 | Singapore launches regional IP awards (opens in new tab)
Tech in Asia: 5 June 2026 | Asia is setting a new benchmark for growth via intangible assets (opens in new tab)
Tech in Asia: 17 August 2026 | How two innovative firms turned great ideas into global growth (opens in new tab)
The Straits Times: 25 August 2026 | Start-up cracks clogging challenge in coffee vending machines to serve kopi 24/7 (opens in new tab)
Startup Fortune: 25 August 2026 | Kopi Near Me Solves the Sticky Clog That Kept Kopi Out of Vending Machines (opens in new tab)
