Intellectual property (IP) is a strategic intangible asset of Technical University – Sofia (TU – Sofia) and plays a key role in fulfilling its mission for the development of innovations, science, and technology. Effective IP protection provides the legal framework that enables the university to preserve, develop, and commercialize its scientific achievements and technological innovations, while contributing to the sustainable development of society.

Significance of Legal Protection of Intellectual Property:

• Stimulating innovation: Providing protection for innovative ideas and technologies motivates researchers to create innovations with real value for industry and society.

• Commercialization and sustainability: TU – Sofia can license or transfer rights to IP objects, generating revenue that can be reinvested in research and development activities.

• Enhancing competitiveness: Effective IP protection establishes TU – Sofia’s reputation as a leading innovation institution, ready for collaboration with industry at national and international levels.

• Human resource development: IP protection encourages academic staff, doctoral students, and students to actively participate in scientific projects and developments, developing their skills and expertise.

Potential for creating intellectual property objects at TU – Sofia
TU – Sofia has the capacity to develop a wide range of intellectual property objects, including:

• Patents for inventions: Technological solutions in areas such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics and automation, energy, transport technology, computer systems and technologies, telecommunications, robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, energy efficiency, and medical technologies.
• Utility models: Technical improvements and enhancements to existing products or processes.
• Trademarks: Protection of brands and logos related to university projects or innovative products.
• Copyrights: Software applications, multimedia developments, scientific publications, and educational materials.
• Designs: Industrial design of products or technologies created at the university.
• Know-how: Specific knowledge, methodologies, and technologies developed by researchers and faculty.

University policy for intellectual property management
TU – Sofia strives to create a supportive environment for intellectual property management by providing:

• Legal protection: Registration and maintenance of rights to IP objects created at the university.
• Consultations: Individual assistance to researchers and inventors for the protection and development of their innovations.
• Commercialization: Support in licensing, partnerships with industry, and market realization of scientific developments.
• Training: Conducting seminars and courses for students and academic staff, researchers, doctoral students, and students in the field of intellectual property.

With a clear strategy for protection and development of intellectual property, TU – Sofia establishes itself as a driver of innovation, ensuring sustainable impact on science, industry, and society.