Obuda University’s Innovation Model Presented at the WIPO–AUTM Summit in Ankara
Prof. Tamás Haidegger represented Obuda University’s innovation ecosystem at the fifth WIPO–AUTM International Knowledge and Technology Transfer Leadership Summit, that took place in Ankara on 19–20. October 2026. The invitation-only forum brought together 67 participants representing 38 countries to discuss how research results can deliver greater economic and societal benefits.
Jointly organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM), in cooperation with Türkiye’s University–Industry Cooperation Centers Platform (USIMP), the summit was hosted by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TÜRKPATENT). Obuda University and its technology transfer company, Initium Venture Labs, received a personal invitation after WIPO director general Mr. Daren Tang’s successful personal visit in spring, recognizing his experience in strengthening Hungary’s innovation and technology transfer ecosystem.
Prof. Haidegger’s contribution drew on Hungarian practices and Obuda University’s approach to connecting research with commercial opportunities. The materials prepared for the summit described a coordinated pathway from the early identification and protection of intellectual property through prototype development and technology validation to licensing, industry partnerships and spin-off creation.
Obuda University’s innovation ecosystem provides a practical example of this approach. Its Innovation Office and digital IP SCAN portal support the disclosure and management of intellectual creations, while the Minimum Viable Project (MVP) and Proof of Concept (PoC) programmes help promising ideas progress towards application. Initium Venture Labs connects these activities with professional commercialization support, backed by the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office’s Fast Track program.
A further focus was the development of technology transfer expertise, where Haidegger’s contribution highlighted the importance of combining intellectual property education, innovation management training and practical experience with real research portfolios to build lasting institutional capabilities.
The summit programme addressed sustainable systems and careers in technology transfer, the societal impact of innovation and the development of the WIPO Global Knowledge and Technology Transfer Playbook, a practical resource for institutional leaders, policymakers and professionals. Participation provides an opportunity to share Obuda University’s experience with international peers and explore approaches that can strengthen the university’s support for researchers and industry collaboration.
Prof. Haidegger’s contribution drew on Hungarian practices and Obuda University’s approach to connecting research with commercial opportunities. The materials prepared for the summit described a coordinated pathway from the early identification and protection of intellectual property through prototype development and technology validation to licensing, industry partnerships and spin-off creation.
Obuda University’s innovation ecosystem provides a practical example of this approach. Its Innovation Office and digital IP SCAN portal support the disclosure and management of intellectual creations, while the Minimum Viable Project (MVP) and Proof of Concept (PoC) programmes help promising ideas progress towards application. Initium Venture Labs connects these activities with professional commercialization support, backed by the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office’s Fast Track program.
A further focus was the development of technology transfer expertise, where Haidegger’s contribution highlighted the importance of combining intellectual property education, innovation management training and practical experience with real research portfolios to build lasting institutional capabilities.
The summit programme addressed sustainable systems and careers in technology transfer, the societal impact of innovation and the development of the WIPO Global Knowledge and Technology Transfer Playbook, a practical resource for institutional leaders, policymakers and professionals. Participation provides an opportunity to share Obuda University’s experience with international peers and explore approaches that can strengthen the university’s support for researchers and industry collaboration.
