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Conference


FDI executive exchange: Protecting knowledge as a competitive advantage
Programme | Registration | Related links

How to protect technology, trade secrets and development solutions in international business will be the main topics at the event intended for executives of foreign-owned and mixed-ownership companies, as well as decision-makers responsible for development, innovation, technology, legal affairs and international business.

24 September 2026
9.00 - 14.00
Smlednik, Slovenia
CUBO Golf

SPIRIT Slovenia invites you to the first session of the FDI Executive Exchange Series, a leadership-focused programme of networking and knowledge-sharing events designed specifically for executives and senior decision-makers of foreign-owned and mixed-ownership companies operating in Slovenia.

This exclusive executive session brings together company leaders to discuss strategic topics that influence long-term business success, competitiveness and growth. The first event in the series, Protecting Knowledge as a Competitive Advantage, will focus on the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, trade secrets, know-how and innovative solutions as key assets for sustainable business development and international expansion.

Through a combination of business and legal perspectives, practical case studies and examples of good practice, participants will gain valuable insights into effectively managing and protecting knowledge-based assets in an increasingly competitive global environment.

More than a traditional training event, the FDI Executive Exchange Series is designed as a platform for peer learning, open dialogue and high-level networking among business leaders. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss common challenges, exchange practical experiences and build valuable professional connections with fellow executives and experts.

What participants will gain:

  • Practical insights and solutions relevant to business operations
  • Examples of successful approaches and good practices
  • Exchange of experiences with executives from leading companies
  • Direct dialogue with experts and institutional representatives
  • Opportunities for high-level networking and new business connections


Participation is free of charge, but registration is mandatory. Due to the exclusive nature of the event, the number of places is limited.

Please complete the registration form below no later than 23rd September 2026.

PROGRAMME

9.00–9.30
Participant registration and morning coffee

9.30–9.35
Welcome remarks

Tamara Zajec Balažič, Director of SPIRIT Slovenia

9.35–9.50
Opening kynote: Intellectual property as a strategic business asset

Karin Žvokelj, MSc, Director of the Slovenian Intellectual Property Office

9.50–10.05
Strategies for protecting intellectual property and trade secrets

Vesna Kovič, Director of Patentna pisarna d.o.o.

10.05–10.20
From research to market

Robert Blatnik, MSc, CLP, Jožef Stefan Institute

10.20–10.35
Trademarks and designs as a competitive advantage

Mojca Kušej, Head of the Trademarks, Designs and Geographical Indications Department, Slovenian Intellectual Property Office

10.35–11.05
Coffee break and networking

11.05–11.35
Industry case study: Sandoz

Miha Kotnik, Head of the Intellectual Property Team

11.35–12.00
Round table: From knowledge protection to business value – company experiences

Representatives of companies: 

  • Sandoz 
  • Iskraemeco 
  • Kansai Helios Slovenija
  • Remigo

Moderator: Associate Professor Jana Hojnik, PhD

12.00–12.15
Questions from participants and closing remarks

12.15
Lunch and informal networking

The event will be held in Slovenian. AI-powered machine translation into English will be available to participants.

The organiser reserves the right to make minor changes to the programme.

REGISTRATION

Related links

Invest in Slovenia

SLOVENIA: IT HAS WHAT IT TAKES

Industries and technologies in Slovenia

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE RIGHT APPROACH

Why do business in Slovenia

SLOVENIA’S WINNING BUSINESS PROPOSITION

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