The European IP Helpdesk, in collaboration with the European Patent Office, has launched this year’s “From Lab to Market” training series.
The session on 22 April will explore how the German start-up Infinite Roots is pioneering sustainable biotech – and how IP strategy supports the development and scaling of platform technologies.
Based on the EPO case study “Infinite Roots”, IP experts Adéla Dvořáková (Project Adviser, EIC Transition, EISMEA), who is also the author of the case study, and Yann Ménière (Chief Economist, EPO) will discuss key takeaways from the company’s innovation journey, sharing insights into translating research into market opportunities moderated by Stephanie Weber, European IP Helpdesk.
Wednesday 22 April 2026, 10:30 – 12:00 (CEST) online
CASE STUDY
Infinite Roots: from strategic IP portfolio to infinite business possibilities (biotech sector)
Founded in 2018, Infinite Roots develops new food systems by innovating across the value chain, from circular fermentation feedstocks based on agricultural byproducts to consumer products built on the functional properties of mycelium. Its ambition goes beyond meat alternatives, addressing food waste, emissions, and food security through scalable platform technologies. A central element of its growth strategy is the early appointment of an experienced IP manager to build and manage a coherent IP portfolio.
As investment rounds progress, investor expectations regarding IP protection, freedom to operate, and portfolio strength increase significantly. Hence, the company relies on business and patent intelligence to strategically target patent protection, balancing costs with market and competitive opportunities. By focusing on platform technologies, Infinite Roots creates a foundation for multiple products and market applications. This IP-driven approach expands business options while reinforcing long-term competitiveness and investor confidence.
Read the full case study here.
SPEAKERS
Adéla Dvořáková
Project Adviser, EIC Transition, EISMEA Brussels, Belgium
Adéla Dvořáková is a tech-to-market adviser at EIC Transition, working closely with researchers and innovators to help turn scientific breakthroughs into market-ready products and businesses. Before joining EISMEA, she held various roles at the Research Executive Agency (REA), EUIPO, and the EPO, gaining strong expertise in intellectual property and EU-funded R&D projects.
Yann Ménière
Chief Economist, Chief Economist Unit, EPO Munich, Germany
Yann Ménièrejoined the EPO as Chief Economist in 2016. He leads a team responsible for developing economic studies, patent analytics, and digital tools within the EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology. He was previously a professor of economics at Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, where he led the chair on IP and Markets for Technology. He has several years of academic and field experience in issues relating to the economics of patents, innovation, technological change, and economic growth.