About Us
The Intellectual Property Awareness Network is an independent, not for profit, inclusive membership organisation, committed to championing the importance and understanding of intellectual property (IP) of businesses, large and small. It is unique in the UK in bringing together people who are users of IP in their work from IP rich industry sectors, educationalists teaching IP awareness, IP experts and anyone who has an interest or something to contribute or who would just like to know more about IP and make connections.
First formed in 1993 on the initiative of Dr John Reid (then President of CIPA, the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys), IPAN now focuses its activities on the Education, Business, Finance and Economics, and Parliamentary sectors. However, it does not lobby for any particular sector or IP viewpoint or provide legal advice on IP issues. As a result, IPAN is increasingly seen as an independent authority on IP awareness matters amongst important stakeholders.
Constituted in England, the Intellectual Property Awareness Network – IPAN, is a not for profit company, limited by guarantee and with educational objects, registered in England under no. 07693250, with registered office at c/o the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys, 2nd Floor, Halton House, 20-23 Holborn, London EC1N 2JD. It operates with minimal formality and cost. Management is through the Board of Directors which decides on applications for membership and the meeting programme. All members are governed by the IPAN Articles of Association and Rules.
IPAN supports the aims of IP Inclusive and seeks to promote equality, diversity and inclusion in its membership and activities, encouraging all to contribute fully and on an equal basis. IPAN also supports the aims of the IP Pro Bono initiative which helps provide advice and legal support in IP cases for defendants and claimants who cannot afford to pay.
John Ogier is the current Chair, assisted by Nigel Worth as vice-Chair. CIPA continues to provide active assistance, including help with IPAN meetings and some administrative support.
Download the IPAN brochure for more information.
Meetings
IPAN meets regularly where possible “in person” (usually at the CIPA offices in Holborn, London) or “virtually” in webinars or through Zoom, to hear progress with initiatives from IPAN interest groups and to discuss a contemporary IP topic after a presentation by a guest expert. Meetings are conducted with minimal formality (and usually to Chatham House rule) to allow open discussion and expression of opinions.
“In person” meetings typically end with general discussion and the chance for networking, usually over a glass of wine and nibbles. Meetings are open to IPAN members and their guests (subject to available space) and to anyone interested in becoming a member.
Membership
IPAN seeks to promote equality, diversity and inclusion in its membership and activities, and encourages all to contribute fully and on an equal basis. The membership includes varied commercial, financial, professional and academic member organisations and individuals, sharing an enthusiasm for IP and its key role in the developing “knowledge” economy. Several other organisations, such as the UK Intellectual Property Office and the Brussels based 4IP-Council, are observer members.
New organisations and individuals (including students) with an active interest in IP and its value to society are encouraged to apply to join IPAN. Member organisations are largely represented by non-specialists with an interest in IP rather than by IP lawyers.
Current IPAN members are shown here.
An annual membership fee is payable to help IPAN achieve its educational objectives and cover operating expenses.