From Problem to Profit: AI-Driven Innovation and Licensing

Recap from November 19,
2024 Meeting of the LES Silicon Valley Chapter

PANEL:

  • John Suh, Former Vice President, Hyundai Motor Company, Founding Director, New Horizons Studio
  • Joel Rosenberg, Managing Director, Iprova – North America 
  • Samir Raiyani, CEO, Dolcera 
  • Chuck Gershman, President and CEO, Co-Founder at Owl Autonomous Imaging 
  • Braden Weatherhead, Managing Director, KPMG IP Compliance Michael Pierantozzi, 
  • Moderator and Board Member, LES-SVC (IAM Strategy 300)

(L-R): Chuck Gershman, Owl Autonomous Imaging; Braden Weatherhead, KPMG; Joel Rosenberg, Iprova; John Suh, New Horizons Studio; Samir Raiyani, Dolcera;
Michael Pierantozzi, Moderator and Board Member, LES-SVC.

On November 19, 2024, the LES Silicon Valley Chapter (LES-SVC) hosted a timely event titled “From Problem to Profit: AI-Driven Innovation and Licensing,” bringing together industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping innovation and intellectual property (IP) management. Held at KPMG’s Silicon Valley office and moderated by LES-SVC board member Michael Pierantozzi, the event explored how AI is transforming the IP lifecycle, from invention to monetization. Packed with expert insights and real-world applications, attendees gained a deeper understanding of AI’s impact on IP strategy and business innovation over the IP management lifecycle.

Exploring AI-Driven Invention

The panel highlighted the pivotal role of AI in accelerating the invention process. Joel Rosenberg (Iprova) demonstrated how generative AI enables inventors to harness vast data sources to create novel solutions, such as CPR devices designed to optimize compression depth and reduce patient injuries. John Suh,Ph.D. ( former Vice President of Hyundai Motor Company), discussed how large language models (LLMs) are revolutionizing R&D and manufacturing innovation processes, dramatically shortening literature review timelines. Chuck Gershman (CEO of Owl Autonomous Imaging)emphasized AI’s role in addressing the “innovator’s dilemma” through improved data diversity and algorithmic performance. Samir Raiyani (CEO, Dolcera) showcased how AI-powered platforms are evolving from static IP search tools into dynamic engines for real-time innovation and competitive analysis.

Creating Licensing Value

Chapter leadership and sponsors (L-R): Reina Sato, NEDO Silicon Valley Office; Braden Weatherhead, KPMG; Efrat Kasznik, Chapter Chair; Mark Holmes, Chapter Board member; Larry Udell, Chapter Founder; and Chapter Board members: Sam Wiley, Sean Clark and Michael Pierantozzi.

AI’s role in creating licensing value was another key focus. Braden Weatherhead (Managing Director, KPMG) shared insights into how AI enhances IP compliance, particularly in royalty audits and risk management, unlocking hidden revenue streams for IP owners. The discussion also explored how AI-driven analytics transform complex datasets into actionable strategies, enabling businesses to optimize licensing opportunities and derive greater value from their IP portfolios.

Challenges and Opportunities

The discussion addressed hurdles in AI adoption. Audience polling identified data quality (42%) and expertise gaps (39%) as top barriers to AI adoption. Panelists discussed strategies to address these challenges, including robust data governance frameworks and fostering collaboration between AI developers and IP professionals. The importance of cross-functional partnerships emerged as a recurring theme, highlighting how ecosystems of developers, IP experts, and innovators drive value creation across the IP management lifecycle.

Looking Ahead

The event concluded with a forward-looking discussion on AI’s future in IP lifecycle management. R&D stood out as the leading application area, with 54% of attendees identifying it as having the greatest potential. Panelists also pointed to manufacturing and compliance as critical areas for AI-driven innovation, with implications for reshoring production and regulatory efficiency. These discussions underscored the need for collaboration to fully realize AI’s transformative potential in the IP lifecycle.

Engaged Participation

The event featured robust audience interaction via Slido, with polls and questions reflecting strong engagement. One attendee noted: “The diversity of the panel and quality of questions made this one of the most engaging LES-SVC sessions I’ve attended.” With 89% of attendees rating the program as “very good” or “excellent,” this event reinforced LES-SVC’s role as a hub for exploring cutting-edge topics in IP and innovation.

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About Licensing Executives Society (USA & Canada), Inc. (LES):

Established in 1965, LES (USA & Canada) is one of the longest running professional societies supporting the development of members engaged in the creation, commercial development, and orderly transfer of intellectual property. LES members include business executives, lawyers, accountants, consultants, and scientists and engineers; who represent innovation-oriented enterprises of all sizes, professional services firms, universities, and government labs. LES is the largest of 43 global member societies of the Licensing Executives Society International, Inc. (LESI). For more information about LES, visit www.lesusacanada.org.

Media Contact:
communications@les.org

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