The era of the knowledge-based economy recognizes that the key condition underlying wealth creation is innovation : the generation, exploitation and diffusion of knowledge. In this framework, the protection of innovation through intellectual property (patents, trademarks, copyrights) is gaining in importance.

The purpose of the conference is to provide the opportunity to researchers to present and discuss works that deepen the actual knowledge on the matter.

Therefore, the scope will be restricted to unpublished or recent research. Wishing to raise the interest of representatives from governments, as well as business, industry, and academia, empirical analyses with a focus on policy and/or managerial implication are warmly welcome. The conference will assume a worldwide orientation, with a special focus on Europe, Japan and the United States.