Launch Tennessee has announced the establishment of the Tennessee Intellectual Property Alliance (TNIPA), which joins the national network of the U.S. Intellectual Property (IP) Alliance. This national organization is dedicated to leading efforts and providing resources to position the United States as a global leader in IP education and awareness.
Supported by the Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC), TNIPA aims to enhance the economic and social well-being of Tennessee residents. The alliance will do this by promoting technological research and development and driving economic activity through the protection and commercialization of intellectual property.
“TTAC’s mission focuses on transitioning more university research from the lab to the marketplace,” stated Charles Layne, Director of TTAC. “TNIPA will be instrumental in this process by mobilizing Tennessee’s intellectual property ecosystem to support and guide research institutions in expanding their IP portfolios.”
Kristen Johns, Acting Director of TNIPA, emphasized the critical role of intellectual property in fostering innovation and driving economic growth.
“Through this alliance, we are positioning Tennessee as a leader in IP development and commercialization, which will ultimately benefit businesses, entrepreneurs, and citizens across the state,” she noted.
With extensive experience in intellectual property law and leadership within innovative ventures, Johns is committed to cultivating a vibrant IP ecosystem in Tennessee.
TNIPA’s efforts will concentrate on three key areas:
- IP Awareness & Education: Enhancing understanding of intellectual property rights and their significance among businesses, entrepreneurs, and the general public.
- IP Ecosystem Collaboration: Building partnerships among academia, industry, government, and other stakeholders to develop a robust IP ecosystem in Tennessee.
- IP Diversity & Inclusion: Ensuring that all Tennesseans have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the state’s innovation activities.
To achieve these goals, the alliance plans to launch various programs and initiatives, such as educational workshops and networking events.
“A strong intellectual property ecosystem is vital for fostering an innovation-driven economy,” said LaunchTN’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lindsey Cox. “TNIPA will play a key role in unlocking Tennessee’s innovation potential by supporting startups and promoting collaboration with the state’s thriving research and development sector.”
