In 2025, ADR Center collaborated with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) to strengthen the internal mediation capacity of the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office (HIPO). This strategic initiative was part of the broader ECP4 Supporting Business and Innovation project, which aims to enhance Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practices across Europe.
By delivering a high-impact, IMI-certified ADR training programme, the project aimed to embed mediation expertise within HIPO, empowering it to support stakeholders—especially SMEs—in navigating disputes related to intellectual property. The training was specifically designed to upskill key staff and align HIPO’s services with the EU’s broader ADR objectives.
Following a Request for Offer issued by EUIPO, ADR Center was selected to design and deliver a 5-day (40-hour) intensive mediation training course tailored to the needs of intellectual property professionals. The course took place fully on-site at HIPO’s headquarters in Budapest from 16 to 20 June 2025.
Delivered in English, the training was led by two senior international trainers from ADR Center—Constantin-Adi Gavrila and Elena Koltsaki—both experts in ADR in the context of intellectual property law. The programme was structured around ADR Center’s SOLVE methodology, a practical, proven framework that emphasizes skill-building through role-plays, case studies, and real-time feedback.
Ten participants from HIPO took part in this immersive course, which combined foundational mediation theory with hands-on skills training. At the end of the programme, all participants were eligible for international accreditation under the International Mediation Institute (IMI) framework, significantly enhancing their ability to handle complex IP-related disputes through mediation.
The ADR Center successfully delivered an internationally recognised edition of its IMI/ADR Center International Accredited Mediator Training in Budapest. Participants reported an increase in their confidence and competence in mediation practice, especially within the highly specialised field of intellectual property.
The training resulted in the strengthening of HIPO’s internal capacity to manage and promote ADR processes, particularly mediation, as a viable and effective dispute resolution mechanism for IP cases. With this capacity in place, HIPO is now better positioned to guide businesses—especially startups and SMEs—through the dispute resolution landscape, offering cost-effective alternatives to litigation.
By aligning HIPO’s staff capabilities with EU best practices in ADR, the project supports the long-term strategic goal of enhancing the efficiency, accessibility, and credibility of dispute resolution services across Europe’s IP ecosystem.
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