How can intellectual property turn innovation into investment, international trade and economic growth? The IP Federation’s recent visit to Geneva brought this question into discussions at WIPO, the WTO and the UK Mission, alongside CIPA and ICC United Kingdom. From launching a new international report and engaging with policymakers to championing the needs of smaller businesses, the delegation demonstrated why effective IP systems matter in markets of every size. Read the full article to discover the key messages, partnerships and practical examples shaping the Federation’s international advocacy.

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IP Federation accounts 31 December 2025: Annual Report and Unaudited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025

Double-sided A4 bifold leaflet, which can be printed as needed, outlining the IP Federation, a long-established UK industry body representing major innovative companies across sectors to advocate for a high-quality, cost-effective intellectual property system through expert committees and close engagement with government, IP institutions, and international organisations to support innovation and global competitiveness. An A4 trifold leaflet is also available.

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ISSN 2755-5755 I feel honoured to be writing the introduction to the 2025 IP Federation Review as the current President of the IP Federation. The IP Federation relies heavily on volunteers from member companies, and these volunteers continue to impress me with their experience and knowledge of IP matters, their understanding of the practical impact IP policy has on business, and the way members from diverse industries can come together to discuss topics to arrive at well thought out, useful policy positions, even on topics where there are diverse viewpoints in our membership. To lead such a tremendous organisation is a real privilege, and I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in the IP Federation for their support. - Sarah Vaughan, President

In “Changing tides on the DEI coastline (and why IP Inclusive matters more now than ever)”, Andrea Brewster reflects on the backlash against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and concerns that it might undermine progress in the IP sector. Amid political shifts and economic pressures, some organisations have reduced or reframed their DEI efforts. However, conversations across the profession show that many businesses and individuals still value inclusive workplaces and recognise the talent and innovation benefits of diversity. Brewster argues that this climate makes IP Inclusive more important than ever, as an apolitical, sector-wide safe space for advocacy, support and collaboration. She emphasises the power of community, allyship and pipeline initiatives such as Careers in Ideas. The article concludes that diversity remains essential for stronger, more sustainable businesses, and that IP Inclusive enters its second decade with renewed purpose and confidence.

In “Who pays for the use of digital sequence information (DSI)?”, James Horgan analyses the implications of a decision adopted at COP16 under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The decision establishes a new biodiversity fund to be financed by certain commercial users of publicly available digital sequence information (DSI), with contributions linked to company size and turnover. Horgan explains that while the measure is described as non-binding, it raises significant legal and practical uncertainties, including whether payments are voluntary or effectively a tax, how turnover is calculated, which sectors and activities fall within scope, and how “DSI” and “user” are defined. He highlights concerns about duplication of payments across jurisdictions and limited clarity on how DSI is actually used in industry, noting that much patent-related DSI is human or laboratory-derived rather than sourced from biodiverse ecosystems. The article concludes that without clearer guidance and harmonised implementation, the Cali Fund is unlikely to generate substantial support despite initial expectations.

In “Patents supporting innovation: A Rolls-Royce case study”, Sarah Vaughan explores how patents underpin collaborative innovation at Rolls-Royce plc in the drive towards net zero aviation. The article highlights the UltraFan engine, which delivers a 25% fuel burn improvement over first-generation Trent engines through new architecture and technologies, including a geared fan system and large composite blades. A key innovation, Direct Insertion manufacturing for reinforcing composite fan blades, originated from long-standing research collaboration with the University of Bristol and was further industrialised with the National Composites Centre. Vaughan explains that early patent protection enabled secure collaboration, publication, and further development while safeguarding commercial interests. The case study demonstrates how a strong IP framework supports university–industry partnerships, accelerates advanced manufacturing, and helps translate research into sustainable aerospace technology.