A Deep Dive into IP & Deep Tech in MENA and ASEAN Regions

On March 25th, the SMU Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship hosted a landmark session titled:
“IP & Deep Tech in MENA & ASEAN: Cross-sharing on Challenges and Opportunities”
This impactful event was moderated by Mrs. Rania Mneimneh and led by Dr. Hebatalla Kaoud, in collaboration with Nile University, American University of Beirut (AUB), New York University Abu Dhabi, and Innovators Support Fund (ISF)

Bringing together distinguished experts across the MENA and ASEAN regions, the session tackled timely and complex issues in intellectual property (IP), deep tech, and technology transfer, with a shared focus on cross-regional collaboration and mid-tech growth. – صندوق رعاية المبتكرين والنوابغ.

Thought-Provoking Contributions from Leading Experts:

Opened the session by emphasizing the vital role of universities in fostering IP awareness, designing effective innovation policies, and enhancing the innovation capacity of emerging economies especially Egypt.

Spoke on the structural gaps within Egypt’s innovation pipeline, particularly in development, demonstration, and commercialization stages. He advocated for building researcher trust in IP enforcement, and highlighted frugal innovation and reverse engineering as practical approaches toward a sustainable knowledge economy.

Dr. Fadia Homeidan

Presented a compelling lineup of AUB spinouts, ranging from non-invasive cardiovascular diagnostics and AI-driven skin anomaly detection to refugee telehealth services and smart irrigation solutions in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley. Her insights showcased how resilience, IP strategy, and mission-driven research can turn scientific advancements into societal impact.

Offered a comparative lens between capital-rich and capital-scarce ecosystems. He stressed the importance of faculty engagement, patient capital, and strategic partnerships with local industries to effectively commercialize research in deep tech domains.

Provided a transparent overview of Egypt’s evolving national innovation policies from fragmented IP frameworks to a more unified and strategic push. His remarks included the importance of reforming IP laws, educating researchers, and enabling support through national Venture Hubs.

Reflected on Singapore’s 25-year journey toward building a world-class innovation and IP ecosystem. He underscored the essential ingredients of talent, capital, and market access for deep tech success, while spotlighting the 12th Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) as a golden opportunity for MENA innovators.

Applications for the LKYGBPC are open until April 30, 2025. This is a unique gateway for MENA-based founders and startups to access Southeast Asia’s innovation markets and networks.