1.1. The CIPC IP Youth Awards (“the Awards”) are organised by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) to recognize and celebrate young South African creators who have some groundbreaking ideas.
1.2. By entering the Awards, participants agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions.
2.1. The competition is open to South African citizens aged 18 to 35 years at the time of entry.
2.2. Entrants must own or co-own the idea, and the idea should not infringe intellectual property rights.
2.3. Employees of CIPC, their immediate family members, and individuals involved in the judging process are not eligible to enter.
3.1. Submissions must be made online via the official entry platform before the closing date. (entries close on Friday, 13 March 2026)
3.2. Entries must include: A detailed description of the idea, A brief explanation of the impact and potential of the creation.
3.3. Late, incomplete, or falsified entries will be disqualified.
3.4. It is the duty of the applicant to enter the right category. Judges will not reallocate any entries. Entries in the wrong category will not be considered.
4.1. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
4.2. The judging panel will consist of industry experts, IP professionals, and representatives from CIPC.
4.3. The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into regarding outcome Awards & Prizes.
5.1. Winners will receive recognition, and some prizes.
5.2. The exact nature of prizes may vary and will be communicated upon winner selection.
5.3. Prizes are non-transferable and may not be exchanged for cash. Publicity & Confidentiality.
6.1. By entering, participants grant CIPC the right to use their names, images, and details of their innovations for promotional purposes.
6.2. CIPC will take reasonable measures to protect confidential information; however, entrants are encouraged to take necessary steps to secure their IP before submission.
7.1. CIPC reserves the right to disqualify any entrant who violates these terms, provides false information, or engages in unethical conduct.
7.2. CIPC shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or claims arising from participation in the Awards.
7.3. CIPC reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior notice.
7.4. Participation in the Awards constitutes acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
7.5. Previous winners and runners-up are not eligible to enter the 2026 CIPC IP Youth Awards. This is to ensure that more young innovators have the opportunity to be recognised and awarded.
For inquiries, contact: info@cipcipyouthawards.co.za
