Women*Network
The NCP-IP Women* Network was launched in 2022 with a kick-off event and has since established itself as a platform for networking, professional exchange and mutual support. It brings together women working in the fields of intellectual property (IP), intellectual property rights and the commercialisation of knowledge – for example, in patent departments, technology transfer, research or the commercialisation of intellectual property.
At the regular meetings, which take place around twice a year and are hosted by different organisations, participants get to know different institutions and fields of work, gain professional insights and exchange experiences on career paths and current developments in the IP sector. Over time, the network’s scope has been expanded to include topics relating to knowledge valorisation, such as social innovation, the commercialisation of artistic works and the social and economic use of research findings.
Past events have demonstrated the value of personal exchange and networking across institutional boundaries. Insights and highlights from the individual meetings can be found in our news articles, for example here. Information on upcoming events and the network is available on our website.
A Look Back at the NCP-IP Women’s* Network Meeting at TU Wien
On February 17, 2026, the NCP-IP Women’s* Network meeting took place at the Vienna University of Technology on the topic “Social Innovation in Practice: Technologies at the Intersection of Societal Challenges.”
The event focused on the diverse ways in which technology-driven innovations can help address societal challenges. Participants gained fascinating insights into the work of the CTSI—Center for Technology-driven Social Innovation—and learned about current approaches and projects at the intersection of technology and social innovation.
In addition, the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange ideas with representatives from the Innovation and Knowledge Transfer department at TU Wien and the CTSI. Through one-on-one conversations, participants were able to share experiences, gain new perspectives, and establish valuable contacts.
The network meeting thus offered not only professional insights but also a space for exchange, networking, and a collective exploration of how technology and innovation can make a positive contribution to society.
A Look Back at the NCP-IP Women's* Network Meeting at the Technical Museum
On October 1, 2025, the NCP-IP Women’s* Network meeting on the topic of “Patente Frauen” took place at the Vienna Technical Museum.
The highlight of the meeting was an exclusive guided tour of the exhibition of the same name, “Patente Frauen,” which highlights the innovative and, until now, largely overlooked contributions of women in technology and research. The tour offered fascinating insights into the achievements and accomplishments of women and highlighted the significant contributions they have made to the development of technology and science.
Afterward, there was an opportunity to discuss with representatives from the Vienna Technical Museum initiatives and ways to increase the visibility of women in research, technology, and commercialization.
A look back at the NCP-IP Women’s* Network meeting at the Institute for Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
The NCP-IP Women’s* Network meeting at the Institute for Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) on 21 October 2024 offered participants insights into current issues relating to intellectual property (IP) and knowledge valorisation. Following a group lunch, the programme featured presentations by XISTA, an introduction to the ISTA spin-off Syntropic Medical, and a first-hand account of the start-up experience. The meeting was rounded off with an insight into science communication from VISTA Science Experiences and a guided tour of the ISTA campus. The event was held in English and provided numerous opportunities for professional exchange and networking.
A Look Back at the NCP-IP Women’s* Network Meeting at the University of Applied Arts Vienna
On June 4, 2024, the NCP-IP Women’s* Network Meeting on the topic of “Knowledge Valorization” took place at the University of Applied Arts Vienna.
The focus was on a broader understanding of knowledge and technology transfer that encompasses not only research and technology but also art, culture, creativity, and artistic research. Participants discussed the potential offered by broad access to knowledge valorization and how different forms of knowledge and perspectives can be better incorporated.
A particular focus was placed on the gender perspective: What opportunities does knowledge valorization open up for women in research, knowledge transfer, and innovation? And how can existing inequalities and power dynamics in transfer processes be made visible and transformed?
The exchange with women and researchers from the arts sector contributed valuable perspectives and experiences. The meeting thus provided a space for discussion, new ideas, and networking at the intersection of research, art, innovation, and society.
A look back at the NCP-IP Women’s* Network meeting at Austrian Wirtschaftsservice (aws)
The meeting of the NCP-IP Women’s* Network at Austria Wirtschaftsservice (aws) on 20 March 2023 focused on the interplay between intellectual property (IP) and artificial intelligence. Expert input on funding opportunities, alongside discussions and case studies from research and funding practice, offered a wide range of perspectives on current developments. Afterwards, the participants took the opportunity to exchange views and network. The next meeting is already being planned for the autumn. You can find the latest news and further information on the Women in IP page.
A Look Back at the Kick-Off Meeting of the NCP-IP Women's Network
On June 21, 2022, the kick-off meeting of the NCP-IP Women* Network took place at the Haus der Forschung in Vienna.
Since women remain underrepresented in the IP industry, the network was created to serve as a platform for networking, exchange, and mutual support. Women from various fields of intellectual property were invited to the kick-off meeting—including patent attorneys, patent engineers, technology transfer officers, patent experts, as well as innovators and founders.
The focus was on the shared question of what needs and challenges women in the IP sector face and how the NCP-IP can provide them with targeted support. The meeting thus marked the beginning of regular dialogue and further networking among women in the IP and innovation sectors.