The WIPO Young Experts Program 2026–2027 is a prestigious two-year fully funded international professional development programme offered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland. Designed for talented early-career professionals, the programme provides hands-on experience in intellectual property (IP), innovation, creativity, and multilateral cooperation while helping participants develop leadership and technical expertise in a global environment.
Participants work directly on WIPO initiatives, collaborate with international experts, and gain practical exposure to both the technical and strategic aspects of intellectual property. With a generous monthly stipend of CHF 5,000, mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional training, the Young Experts Program is an exceptional opportunity for professionals seeking to build careers that contribute to innovation and sustainable development worldwide.
About the WIPO Young Experts Program
The WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) was established to support the development of early-career professionals who are passionate about intellectual property and its role in promoting innovation, creativity, and sustainable economic growth.
Over a 24-month period, selected participants work across various WIPO departments, gaining valuable experience in international policy, diplomacy, innovation, and intellectual property management. The programme combines practical work experience with structured learning opportunities offered through the WIPO Academy, allowing participants to strengthen both technical expertise and leadership capabilities.
It is important to note that the YEP is not a recruitment programme. Participants are not permitted to apply for employment opportunities at WIPO during the programme or within one year after completing it. Instead, the programme is intended to prepare participants for leadership roles within the broader global intellectual property ecosystem.
Programme Benefits
Successful participants receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Monthly stipend of CHF 5,000.
- Contribution covering 75% of medical insurance costs.
- Accident insurance.
- Contribution toward travel expenses.
- Possible assistance with obtaining a Swiss visa.
- Guidance in securing accommodation in Geneva.
- Professional mentoring throughout the programme.
- Academic training through the WIPO Academy.
- Access to international networking opportunities.
- Practical experience working on global intellectual property initiatives.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the WIPO Young Experts Program, applicants must:
- Be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Be available to participate for the full 24-month programme.
- Hold a university degree.
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience.
- Demonstrate excellent analytical, research, and organizational skills.
- Possess excellent written and spoken English.
- Have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrate knowledge of or experience in intellectual property, innovation, or creativity.
Why Join the WIPO Young Experts Program?
Unique On-the-Job Learning
Participants gain practical experience by working on real WIPO projects while simultaneously accessing academic learning opportunities through the WIPO Academy.
Professional Mentoring
Each participant is assigned experienced mentors who provide guidance on leadership, management, and professional development throughout the programme.
International Networking
Young Experts interact with senior leaders, intellectual property specialists, and professionals from around the world, building valuable international networks that continue beyond the programme.
Meaningful Global Projects
Participants contribute to initiatives addressing major global challenges through intellectual property, innovation, and creativity, including projects supporting sustainable development and climate solutions.
Diverse International Environment
WIPO’s workforce represents more than 120 countries, providing participants with the opportunity to collaborate within a highly multicultural and inclusive workplace.
Career Development
The programme offers first-hand exposure to international diplomacy and multilateral cooperation while allowing participants to develop practical skills that strengthen future careers within the global intellectual property sector.
Professional Learning Experience
Throughout the two-year programme, Young Experts benefit from:
- Hands-on assignments across multiple WIPO initiatives.
- Structured academic learning through the WIPO Academy.
- Leadership development.
- Administrative and management training.
- Cross-cultural collaboration.
- Exposure to international intellectual property policy.
These experiences prepare participants for future leadership roles within government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and innovation ecosystems.
Global Alumni Network
Graduates of the Young Experts Program become part of a growing international network of professionals working across the global intellectual property landscape.
Former participants have described the programme as transformative, highlighting opportunities to:
- Expand professional horizons.
- Develop innovative solutions.
- Strengthen international collaboration.
- Contribute to global innovation and creativity.
- Build lifelong professional relationships.
Why Apply?
The WIPO Young Experts Program offers participants the opportunity to:
- Gain international professional experience in Geneva.
- Learn directly from leading intellectual property experts.
- Receive generous financial support.
- Build leadership and technical skills.
- Develop a strong international professional network.
- Contribute to innovation and sustainable development worldwide.
For professionals interested in intellectual property, innovation, policy, and international cooperation, the programme provides an outstanding platform for long-term career growth.
Final Thoughts
The WIPO Young Experts Program 2026–2027 is one of the world’s leading international professional development programmes for early-career professionals interested in intellectual property and innovation. Combining practical work experience, professional mentoring, academic training, international networking, and generous financial support, the programme equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to become future leaders within the global intellectual property ecosystem. Eligible candidates are encouraged to prepare strong applications and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity.
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