On a day marked by the announcement of strategic alliances and recognition of national talent, the Covarrubias law firm participated as a sponsor of the 9th Edition of the Technology Transfer Awards. The event not only celebrated success stories, but also consolidated Chile’s position as a relevant player at the forefront of global technology.
The Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation (CTKi) ecosystem in Chile has ceased to be a promise and has become a reality with international impact. This was demonstrated last night at the ceremony for the 9th edition of the Technology Transfer Awards, organised by the Chilean Network of Technology Managers (RedGT) with the support of ANID.
As a law firm committed to the protection and promotion of intellectual property, Covarrubias had the honour of sponsoring this event, which brought together the main players who are currently transforming scientific knowledge into concrete solutions for society.
A solid bridge between academia and the productive sector
ne of the most significant milestones of the evening was the announcement of the strategic alliance between RedGT and the National Research and Development Agency (ANID). For our study, these types of collaborations are essential: they represent the necessary ‘bridge’ for research born in national classrooms and laboratories to reach the market and generate value.
In this sense, the role of Chilean universities is indisputable. Institutions such as the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (PUC), the University of Chile and the University of Santiago (USACH), among others, have established themselves as engines of development. Cases such as that of the UC Transfer and Development Directorate, awarded for the international licensing of the Neurotinib molecule to combat Alzheimer’s disease, demonstrate that Chilean science is solving highly complex global problems.
Covarrubias and the promotion of Science and Technology-Based Companies (EBCT)
Our firm’s participation in these awards stems from a deep conviction: innovation requires solid legal and strategic support in order to scale up.
During the ceremony, our partner Arturo Covarrubias had the privilege of presenting the award in the ‘Early Stage EBCT’ category to Bluera. This start-up, creator of the Wastemill system, exemplifies the new generation of Chilean ventures that integrate the circular economy and clean energy as the core of their business models.
‘Seeing the level of sophistication of projects such as Bluera confirms that Chile is now a major hub for technological development worldwide. Supporting these initiatives means enabling the creation of businesses that are not only profitable but also have the potential to change people’s lives and the environment,’ said Arturo Covarrubias after the award ceremony.
The stars of the day
The event highlighted the diversity and scope of national talent in different categories:
- Social Innovation: The ‘Fibromyalgia without pain’ model (UCTemuco), led by Dr Olga Vásquez.
- Internationalisation: Rubisco Biotechnology, with a presence in more than 70 countries.
- Innovative Company: Movizzon (Servicios A&R SpA), pioneers in AI applied to banking.
- Technology Management: Luis Enrique Nilo Ugarte (UAI), for his leadership in global licensing.
A vision for the future
For Covarrubias, being part of this event is not just an act of sponsorship, but a statement of principles. We firmly believe that strengthening technology transfer is the way for Chile to transition to a knowledge-based economy.
We congratulate each of the winners and finalists. Their achievements are proof that, with the right support and adequate protection of their intellectual assets, Chilean innovations are poised to lead markets and transform society globally.