The Food Resilience Unit in the Department of Social Development at the City of Johannesburg recently partnered with Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) at the North-West University (NWU) to host an Intellectual Property (IP) Awareness Workshop. The aim of the workshop was to equip agro-processors and emerging farmers to understand how to protect their innovations. The event was held in Johannesburg on 11 October and brought together these small businesses and experts to engage on how to safeguard innovations and gain competitive advantage through IP protection.

The workshop covered a range of topics, including the basics of IP, protecting IP in agricultural innovations, managing and strategising IP assets, managing IP in collaborations, and understanding resources and support for small-scale farmers. Expert presentations from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) provided small-scale farmers and agro-processors with insights and knowledge necessary to manage and protect their intellectual property while operating in a highly competitive environment.

Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa, the Commercialisation manager at TTIS, gave an engaging presentation on managing IP in collaborations. He discussed how collaboration fosters innovation, reduces costs and opens new markets. Dr Mbanjwa shared practical tips on clarifying ownership, protecting IP, negotiating shared value and drafting clear agreements. He emphasised the mutual benefits of shared risks and efforts, and the importance of clear agreements on IP ownership, collaboration period, roles, cancellation terms and benefit sharing. Attendees found the advice to be relevant and actionable.

Participants appreciated the comprehensive information and the chance to engage with industry experts. The collaboration between the City of Johannesburg, NWU TTIS, ARC, CIPC, and UJ underscores a shared commitment to promoting innovation. It is a significant step in supporting agricultural entrepreneurs in their efforts to boost food security and economic growth in South Africa.

Visit Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS)

Awareness Workshop presenters and emerging farmers and agro-processors.

Products showcased by emerging farmers and agro-processors.

 

Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa, TTIS Commercialisation manager, delivered a presentation on Managing IP in Collaborations,