We spread a culture of original purchasing
INDICAM's projects aim to promote the culture of intellectual property and the protection of industrial property rights, raising awareness among businesses, institutions, professionals, students, and consumers of the importance of innovation, legality, and protecting the value of brands and creations.
Through training, research, awareness-raising, and collaboration with public and private partners, INDICAM's projects contribute to disseminating knowledge and best practices in intellectual property protection, combating counterfeiting, and enhancing corporate intangible assets.
These activities represent a concrete tool to support corporate competitiveness, foster the development of a more transparent and responsible market, and strengthen awareness of the role that intellectual property plays in the country's economic, social, and cultural growth.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Intellectual Property Award
Established in June 2025 on World Anti-Counterfeiting Day, the INDICAM IP Award aims to promote intellectual property culture among young people by encouraging study and research and promoting innovative academic projects and contributions on the protection of innovation, creativity, and intangible assets.
The initiative was launched with the publication of the call for applications, aimed at awarding two study prizes for theses on intellectual property protection, with particular focus on product form, designs, copyright, and shape trademarks.
The first edition saw the participation of the University of Milan and the Polytechnic University of Milan, engaging students and young talents in a program of in-depth study and dialogue with the world of business and industry professionals.
Work is currently underway for the second edition of the award, which confirms INDICAM’s commitment to strengthening the dialogue between academia and the manufacturing sector, promoting the dissemination of IP culture and the training of future intellectual property professionals.
PROJECT
Editorial Series
The project was launched in 2021 and serves as a tool for dissemination and in-depth analysis of the most current and relevant issues for the intellectual property community. Each volume addresses a specific topic through authoritative contributions and diverse perspectives, with the aim of promoting the dissemination of IP culture and stimulating dialogue between businesses, professionals, institutions, universities, and industry stakeholders.
The series analyzes emerging phenomena, regulatory challenges, and best practices, promoting multidisciplinary reflection on selected topics.
Among the titles published are:
Online: Handle with Care
Sustainability and Environmental Protection: Challenges for the IP Community
The Rules of the Game: How Influencer Marketing Is Changing in the Age of Transparency
A new volume in the INDICAM Editorial Series, dedicated to the theme “IP & Art,” is currently in development. This project will explore the dialogue between intellectual property, artistic creativity, and the valorization of cultural heritage.
IP HERO
Influencer marketing project focused on raising awareness among young consumers.
IP HERO is the first superhero for the fight against counterfeiting. By informing people about the dynamics of counterfeiting and piracy, he raises awareness of the fight against IPR infringement and creates engagement through the involvement of celebrities in a different and innovative way.
Police Relationship Management
Police Relationship Management
Based on an existing agreement with the Guardia di Finanza General Command, the Customs Agency’s Anti-Fraud Office, and several local police departments, the program aims to provide a series of practical training sessions, including a focus on current legislation, and build an invaluable bridge between businesses and the various enforcement agencies.
The training, conducted by brand experts or pre-trained INDICAM staff, is the ideal opportunity to directly communicate with local authorities how to distinguish authentic products from fakes based on the basic elements and, above all, provide the most useful information to initiate more specialized investigations, not limited to interventions solely on street vendors.
DECLARATION
Guidelines for Requests for Declarations of Distinctive Marks
To request the Declaration, the Brand must provide the following materials for review by the INDICAM Litigation Expert Group:
The Registration Certificate of the Distinctive Sign for which the Declaration is requested, if available;
Information regarding the proceedings for which the Declaration is requested, including the name of the Counterparty and the distinctive sign and/or images of the product believed to be imitative;
Evidence supporting the claims INDICAM is required to endorse and confirm, in particular marketing documentation attesting to the notoriety of the Distinctive Sign for which the Declaration is requested, expert reports, and statements from industry experts. If specific and detailed information is requested to be included in the declaration to be signed, provide adequate proof of its veracity;
If available, court rulings recognizing the market positioning of the Distinctive Sign in question and/or its reputation.
All materials must be provided in a structured format with a brief accompanying note, at least 10 days before the signature request is requested, to allow for a proper analysis of the request and a prompt and timely response.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
Authenticity
A collaborative project between INDICAM, ANDEMA, and UNIFAB, aimed at creating a European network of virtuous cities focused on positive IP protection. Being an “Authenticity” means joining a cooperative initiative in which local authorities and partner organizations are committed to actively promoting IP protection through events, public information campaigns, training sessions for authorities, and educational initiatives.
Challenge the fake
The awareness campaign promoted in conjunction with Amazon to combat counterfeiting and promote a culture of legality and IP protection. The initiative involves students and universities with the aim of raising awareness of the risks associated with non-original products and highlighting the importance of authenticity through the development of communication, information, and outreach activities aimed at young consumers.
Mercurius
The platform used by INDICAM to support enforcement and brand protection activities allows viewing of material provided by rights holders, such as information, evidence, and references to original products, to facilitate the identification of potential infringements. It also allows authorities to interact with INDICAM staff, fostering more effective collaboration in managing reports and implementing enforcement actions.
Fairs
INDICAM’s participation in industry trade fairs, both in Italy and abroad, is a strategic opportunity for meeting and engaging with businesses, institutions, and IP professionals. Through its presence at events, the Association promotes its activities, fosters the exchange of best practices, and contributes to the culture of brand protection and innovation, assisting in the identification and removal of non-compliant or potentially counterfeit products.