A workshop titled “The Role of Intellectual Property in Entrepreneurship” organised by the Department of Management under the Paari School of Business was held at varsity on April 21, 2025. The speaker, Prof. B Koteswararao Naik, a Professor at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Mumbai, shared his insights on intellectual property and its importance.

Prof. Naik commenced the workshop by discussing the importance of thinking of novel ideas and their potential to lead to successful start-ups. He guided participants on the steps essential to convert their ideas into patentable innovations, conveying the differences between invention and innovation. Moreover, Prof. Naik defined the different steps that are involved in the process of invention, like Idea, originality, identity, imagination, vision, necessity, and opportunity. This not only provided participants with a road map to invention but also encouraged them to think and create something out of the box.

Intellectual Property Management (IPM) was discussed as an important function for any entrepreneur. Prof. Naik introduced the students to the different aspects of IPM and its three key pillars: Create, Protect, and Leverage. He went on to encourage students by focusing on the benefits of IPM, such as attracting investors, protecting their Idea, and differentiating themselves from the present market.

The workshop acted as guidance for all those who aspire to make their mark with innovative ideas. The session concluded with an interactive discussion among the students and Prof. Naik, whose valuable insights inspired all the participants.