Momentum Labs, a Ramallah-based boutique consultancy specializing in mapping studies and evidence-based intelligence, has released a comprehensive stakeholder map of Palestine’s Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ecosystem. Developed in collaboration with the General Directorate of Intellectual Property (GDIP) under the Palestinian-Swiss Intellectual Property Project (PAL-SIP), the map visualizes the critical actors and coordination mechanisms necessary to drive innovation in the region.
A Fragmented but Collaborative Framework
The mapping highlights a complex network of stakeholders involved in the implementation and coordination of IP policies. Central to this is the GDIP, which works across various governmental bodies to manage IP administration and inter-ministerial collaboration.
Key Ecosystem Stakeholders
- Governmental Bodies: Includes the Ministries of National Economy, Culture, Agriculture, Higher Education and Research, and Justice, alongside the Palestine Monetary Authority and the Higher Council for Innovation and Excellence (HCIE).
- Educational Institutions: Key universities such as Palestine Polytechnic University, Birzeit University, and An-Najah National University host Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISCs) at 14 locations to provide outreach and technical support.
- Private Sector and Innovation Support: Organizations like Techno Park, Ibtikar Fund, and Intersect Hub provide the infrastructure for startup acceleration and private sector development.
- International Support: Crucial technical assistance and capacity building are provided by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), UNDP, and the World Bank Group.
Critical Gaps Inhibiting Innovation
While the mapping identifies strong informal networks—such as the IP professional community and TISC networks—it also surfaces several critical structural gaps that hinder Palestine’s global competitiveness:
- Outdated Legislation: The current framework remains fragmented, with separate systems operating in the West Bank and Gaza.
- Limited Treaty Participation: Palestine currently holds only observer status at WIPO and lacks membership in vital international treaties like the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) or the Madrid System for trademarks.
- Enforcement Deficiencies: The judicial system lacks specialized IP courts and robust inter-agency coordination for effective enforcement.
- Digital Integration: IP processes remain heavily paper-based, with minimal digital systems integration and limited access to e-services.
About Momentum Labs
Momentum Labs is a Palestine-based venture builder and growth partner founded in 2019. Operating as a “start-up studio” and boutique consultancy, the firm specializes in market research, stakeholder mapping, and strategic advisory to help organizations define the future of sustainable and inclusive growth in the MENA region.
Source: Momentum Labs
