IP valuation has gained increasing international attention, with recent initiatives by institutions at the European and international level. Nonetheless, reliable IP valuation tools remain limited, particularly for SMEs and practitioners, making it difficult to advise on the topic, secure financing, negotiate agreements, or maximise returns on innovation. Credible valuation methods need to be identified and assessed.

ECTA has started exploring the topic, for example at the ECTA Retreat 2024 and through dedicated webinars in partnership with other organisations, but now aims to deepen its knowledge and contribution by creating a dedicated IP Valuation Task Force.

The Task Force will:

• Map and evaluate existing valuation methodologies for different IP rights and sectors
• Provide recommendations and input upon request to relevant institutions (European Commission, EUIPO, etc.)
• Share knowledge with ECTA members
• Contribute to ECTA’s academic programme (workshops and conference sessions)
• Explore partnerships with valuation experts, financial institutions, and relevant governmental bodies

The initial task force mandate is 12 months after which it will be reassessed. We invite all ECTA members with relevant experience in IP valuation to apply here. As we are aware this is a niche field, please also share this initiative with colleagues, who are not yet members of ECTA, but who have expertise and knowledge in IP valuation and might be interested to join the association and the task force.