COSI’s EiPiC initiative empowers students to bridge theoretical learning with practical application, turning creative ideas into market-ready innovations.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, March 6, 2025 —The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) today announced the expansion of its Extracurricular Intellectual Property Innovation Center (EiPiC) program to Italy, marking a major milestone in its global mission to empower students with real-world, hands-on experience in intellectual property and entrepreneurship. In partnership with the US Embassy, EiPiC Italy will be hosted in Palermo on March 6 and 7 and in Pistoia on March 10 and 11.
Developed by COSI President and CEO Dr. Frederic Bertley, the EiPiC initiative is designed to immerse K-12 students in the dynamic world of intellectual property and entrepreneurship through interactive sessions that simulate patent filing, trademark strategy, and real-world negotiation exercises. Participants will gain practical insights into protecting innovations and transforming creative ideas into marketable ventures, both nurturing future innovators and also reinforcing COSI’s legacy of inspiring curiosity and lifelong learning in science and technology.
“Many of the world’s most groundbreaking innovations are conceived by young minds, yet intellectual property education is rarely offered at the K-12 level,” said Dr. Bertley. “Through EiPiC, we are closing that gap and empowering students to take control of their ideas. This immersive educational experience provides the essential tools needed to navigate today’s complex global economy, and we are thrilled to now introduce it in Italy – a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.”
EiPiC brings together a diverse network of experts – including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and intellectual property attorneys – who collaborate to deliver interactive studios on innovation, intellectual property topics, patent litigation, and the “bench-to-business” process, guiding students from initial ideation through to the development of a robust business model. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants are supported at every stage of their creative and entrepreneurial journey.
The initiative’s expansion into Italy builds upon proven success from prior activations in regions such as Egypt, India, and throughout the United States. In Egypt, over 90% of students reported increased initiative in protecting their innovations, a stronger interest in entrepreneurial pursuits and tangible strategies to move their ideas forward after participating in EiPiC.
“EiPiC represents a transformative opportunity to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. Our goal is to foster a global community of innovators who are not only knowledgeable about intellectual property but are also ready to lead in entrepreneurship and drive economic progress. This initiative is a crucial step towards that vision,” concluded Dr. Bertley.