In fiscal year 2025, Aichi Prefecture has been newly selected as a “Priority Intellectual Property (IP) Support Area,” a program promoted by the Japan Patent Office. This initiative marks a significant step for the regional economy, as it supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in utilizing IP to drive product development, market expansion, and human resource cultivation—with the backing of the national government.
This initiative goes beyond simple subsidies or assistance. It is a model project aimed at embedding IP-driven management capabilities—the ability to leverage IP as a management resource—throughout the region. For a manufacturing hub like Aichi, the potential impact is immense.
Key points of focus include:
- Promoting the “Social Implementation” of Technology
Many SMEs face the issue of “having a patent but not knowing how to leverage it for business.” This program explicitly supports the path from patent to product commercialization and market entry—directly addressing the IP “exit strategy.”
- Strengthening Collaboration with Local Institutions
By partnering with local support organizations, universities, and research institutions, the program aims to establish a cross-sectoral support system that fosters a virtuous cycle of technology, talent, and market development.
- A Model for Nationwide Expansion
Alongside Yamaguchi Prefecture and Kumamoto City, also selected, the aim is to scale successful models across Japan. Aichi has the potential to serve as a national role model and a leading region for IP-driven management.
Aichi’s Manufacturing Steps Into a New Phase
In an era where not only “technological capability” but also “IP utilization capability” is crucial for the growth of SMEs, the trend of using IP not only for protection but also as a source of revenue, recruitment, and branding will accelerate.
How Aichi’s companies seize this opportunity—and what impact they will have on the regional economy—will be closely watched in the coming years.