Kick-off of first EUIPO Mentorship for Artisanal Products in Chile and Colombia
The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), in the context of the EU-funded IP cooperation project AL-INVEST Verde IPR, in collaboration with Artesanías de Colombia and the National Institute of Industrial Property (INAPI) of Chile, have launched a new mentorship targeting artisanal products linked to origin (OLPs) in Colombia and Chile. The activity aims to promote the sustainable development and valorisation of artisanal products through strategic IP tools such as geographical indications (GIs), as well as other IPRs such as collective marks.
Implemented under the AL-INVmentor initiative, this is the first mentorship for artisanal products, focused on building capacity among local artisan producer groups and supporting them in the strategic positioning of their products, branding, governance, sustainability, and technical documentation necessary for GI or certification recognition.
The mentorship will accompany two selected OLPs: silk from the Cauca region in Colombia, and wicker from Chimbarongo in Chile, who will benefit from tailored guidance from IP experts. The mentorship will run from June to September 2025, combining in-person and virtual training workshops focused on IP protection strategies, development of product identity, governance and marketing.
A key element of the mentorship is the co-development of a branding and marketing strategies tailored to each OLP. Participants will also receive support in the elaboration or improvement of the technical specifications of their products—an essential step toward seeking recognition under intellectual property regimes such as GIs or collective marks.
By strengthening the strategic and commercial potential of artisanal products through robust IP tools, this initiative contributes to local economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable territorial development in both Colombia and Chile. The project also aligns with broader EU objectives in promoting inclusive and sustainable value chains and supporting origin-linked products in Latin America.
The EUIPO draws from extensive experience in managing geographical indications and origin-linked products and is currently preparing for its new mandate as the registration authority for EU craft and industrial GIs, with the first application window opening on 1 December 2025. For more information, see: https://www.euipo.europa.eu/en/gi-hub