Construction of Expertise in Intellectual Property: the Brazilian experience

Abstract

This paper examines strategies/initiatives taken by the Brazilian National Intellectual Property Office (INPI) to improve IP training as a key element to facilitate the use of IP system in order to enhance technologica l development. In 2004, INPI structured a Directory (DART) whose main challenge has been to develop programs aiming at the increase of the number of Brazilian institutions/individuals using IP protection. DART’s main mission is to have IP serving as an eff ective tool for innovation. Knowledge and experience about IP protection and commercialization appeared to be one of the main obstacles for the achievement of better indicators in technologic performance. In this context, DART has implemented, in partnersh ip with other institutions, initiatives in IP education that are now organized under the newly created INPI’s Academy. The conception/organization of IP training at all levels, including short courses, disciplines for undergraduate curricula, and graduate programs, has proved to be an important contribution to the National System of Innovation. The paper argues that capacity building on IP protection and commercialization is a central issue for the betterment of indicators related to technological developme nt in Brazil. It also offers information on the structuring and the impact of IP training offered by INPI, indicating the urgent need to develop larger number of programs on technology management and to consider this type of training in the realm of public policies for industry and innovation.