This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” calls on us to move beyond words and take meaningful steps toward gender equality – especially in innovation, science, and law. Today, we honor the remarkable women who have shaped the field of Intellectual Property (IP) and related industries. From inventors and patent examiners to trademark attorneys and policy advocates, women have played a crucial role in shaping our world – often overcoming significant barriers to do so.
Women Behind Groundbreaking Patents
Women have long been behind some of the world’s most influential inventions, even when they weren’t given due credit. Their innovations have transformed industries and pushed the boundaries of IP:
💡 Hedy Lamarr co-developed frequency-hopping technology, which laid the foundation for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS – yet her contributions were initially overlooked.
🔬 Dr. Patricia Bath revolutionized ophthalmology with her Laserphaco Probe, restoring vision for millions and breaking racial and gender barriers in STEM.
🩸 Marion Donovan transformed parenting with the waterproof diaper cover, paving the way for today’s disposable diapers despite early industry skepticism.
🚘 Mary Anderson patented the windshield wiper in 1903, proving that female-led innovations can reshape industries.
🖥️ Radia Perlman, the “Mother of the Internet,” invented the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), a fundamental technology in modern networking.
Recognizing Women Who Shape the Future of IP
Despite these contributions, women still account for less than 20% of patent holders worldwide. But change is happening. With more women stepping into leadership roles, filing patents, and influencing IP policy, the future of innovation is becoming more diverse, inclusive, and dynamic.
This International Women’s Day, let’s commit to accelerating action by supporting women in IP, amplifying their contributions, and breaking barriers to ensure a more equitable future.
This text is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. Should you require any additional information, feel free to contact us.
