Speech by Hon. Garmai Koboi, Director General of LIPO, at the program marking the end of the WIPO-supported IP Management Clinic project for SMEs in Liberia. 

Ladies and gentlemen,
As we gather here today, it is with great pride and gratitude that I stand before you to reflect on the journey of the World Intellectual Property Organization-supported IP Management Clinic project administered by the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO). This initiative, which began in the second quarter of 2023, has now reached its conclusion, marking a significant milestone in our efforts to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.
At LIPO, we embarked on this project to bridge the limited knowledge gaps among SME owners about IP rights and management. The overarching objective of the project was to provide SME owners with the knowledge needed not just to protect their IP but to enable their development and analyze their IP management strategies throughout the innovation process.
Throughout the duration of the IP Management Clinic project, we witnessed remarkable progress and achievements that have contributed significantly to the capacity building and skill development of the participants, 30 SME owners we engaged, representing diverse sectors, from the food processing industry to fashion design. At the outset of the project, it was clear that all of the beneficiaries lacked even the most basic understanding of IP and what it means to their operations.
But now, after nearly six months of intensive and vigorous training, there are lots of profound transformations the project can boast of — one of which is that three SME owners from the project have filed for trademark protection and gotten it, with several other applications being reviewed. This achievement is particularly significant considering that the project beneficiaries had previously operated without filing for applications due to a lack of understanding about IP protections.
The success stories emerging from this project underscore its effectiveness in meeting its stated goals and objectives. Not only have we equipped SME owners with the knowledge and skills to safeguard their innovations and creations, but we have also empowered them to leverage IP as a tool for financial growth and economic development.
Furthermore, the impact of the IP Management Clinic project extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries. By fostering a culture of awareness and appreciation for IP rights within the SME community, we are laying the foundation for long-term sustainability and prosperity. As they continue to thrive and expand, they will contribute to the overall growth and competitiveness of Liberia’s economy.
In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Honorable P. Adelyn Copper and Theresa Thomas-Borbor, the immediate past Director General and Deputy Director General for Industrial Property respectively for LIPO, for initiating and fully executing the WIPO-supported IP Management Clinic project to the letter.