Got an idea that could change lives? Turn it into real-world scientific, societal, or economic impact through effective knowledge valorisation and gain visibility. 

Not sure how to share your idea, protect your rights, and decide about reuse options? So join the IP4OS Open Innovation Challenge and explore how to develop impactful strategies that can help your idea reach the people. We provide support and innovative tools for your valorisation strategy.

What's the challenge about and who should join?

The challenge invites teams to create new ideas that combine Artificial Intelligence (AI), Open Science such as open collaboration and openly shared knowledge, and Intellectual Property (IP) management through smart protection of rights, licensing your idea and defining reuse options.  

1. Pick a real-world scientific or societal problem — in healthcare, education, sustainability, public sector innovation, research data accessibility, or digital inclusion. 

2. Find your team. Participation is open to pre-formed teams of at least three people with complementary expertise in open sharing and IP, for example researchers, AI developers, entrepreneurs, IP specialists, librarians, research managers, students, or policy experts. Interdisciplinary collaboration is strongly encouraged. 

3. Then design the concept for a solution for the problem that combines AI, Open Science, and IP strategies.

You don't need to build a working technology. The challenge focuses on conceptual innovation. Participants should demonstrate how AI, Open Science, and IP strategies can work together responsibly and effectively. The use of AI tools during the development of the proposal, brainstorming, research, drafting, or presentation preparation is fully encouraged as part of the challenge process. 

What do you submit?

• A short written concept (max. 5 pages) describing your idea and - if possible - initial thoughts on valorisation options (openness, sharing, reuse, protection via IP; no exclusion criteria if not possible yet)
• A 3-minute video pitch when you are among the winners

What do you get?

Selected teams receive coaching in two online sessions (July–September 2026) and practical IP4OS tools to further develop their valorisation strategy before the final presentation. The best ideas are presented at the IP4OS Final Policy Event at the European Parliament in Brussels in October 2026:

• 1st Prize — Fully funded participation and live presentation in the Brussels event. 
• 2nd Prize — Speaking slot at the event
• 3rd Prize — Your video showcased during the event

Timeline

Until 15 June 2026: submit your concept

End of June 2026: announcement of shortlisted candidates

July-September 2026: Mentoring and capacity development

13 October 2026: Pitching presentations at the Brussels event

Get in touch with us

Register via the application form HERE.

Contact: Katharina Miller and Vanessa Guzek (MIK): hello@miller.international

Good ideas deserve to travel. Help yours get there.