The Innovators Support Fund (ISF) has announced the launch of the second cycle of the PROTECT initiative, designed to empower Egyptian innovators by securing their intellectual property. In collaboration with the Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority and the Egyptian Knowledge Bank (EKB), this program transforms patents from legal documents into powerful economic assets that drive global competitiveness.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: IP Support & Protection Program
- For: Egyptian innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups with patentable ideas
- Key Benefits: Assistance in drafting and registering patents locally and internationally
- Application Deadline: April 4, 2026
- Location: Egypt
Program Overview
The PROTECT initiative is a strategic effort to support the transition of innovative ideas into commercially viable products and successful companies. By focusing on Intellectual Property (IP) as a tool for investment, the program helps participants protect their creative work while providing the foundation for sustainable innovation and entrepreneurship. It aims to bridge the gap between a technical breakthrough and a market-ready startup.
Key Benefits
- Patent Drafting: Professional support in articulating the technical aspects of an invention for legal filings.
- Registration Support: Assistance with the complexities of registering patents both within Egypt and in international jurisdictions.
- IP Protection: Strategic guidance on safeguarding innovative ideas from infringement.
- Commercialization Path: Support in transforming protected innovations into tangible products or legally structured companies.
- Global Competitiveness: Leveraging the Egyptian Knowledge Bank and national IP resources to empower creators to compete on a global stage.
Eligibility Criteria
- Innovation Status: Applicants must have a novel invention or a tech-enabled idea that meets the criteria for patentability.
- Target Audience: Open to individual innovators, researchers, and early-stage startup founders based in Egypt.
- Strategic Intent: Ideal for those looking to turn their intellectual property into a scalable business model.
How to Apply
Innovators must register and submit their proposals through the ISF electronic submission system. The system also allows applicants to track their project status and manage progress reports throughout the evaluation phase.
- Application Deadline: April 4, 2026
- Apply Now: ISF E-Submission System
- Official Website: www.isf.gov.eg
About Innovators Support Fund (ISF)
Founded in 2019 by national law, the Innovators Support Fund (ISF) is an Egyptian governmental entity dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and supporting talented youth. The fund provides financial and technical support to researchers and entrepreneurs, helping to strengthen Egypt’s position as a regional hub for technology and scientific advancement.
Learn More: Innovators Support Fund LinkedIn
