About

About the IP Law Foundation: Advancing Opportunity in the IP Profession

For nearly two decades, the Foundation—originally established as the American Intellectual Property Law Education Foundation—has championed expanded access and opportunity in the intellectual property (IP) law profession. In 2020, reflecting the growth and impact of its mission, the organization adopted a new name: the Foundation for Advancement of Diversity in IP Law. This change accompanied an expansion of its long-standing programs to attract, support, and empower students committed to careers in IP law.

In 2025, to further clarify its mission and identity, the Foundation streamlined its name to what it is today: The IP Law Foundation.

A Legacy of Impact: The Sidney B. Williams, Jr. Scholar Program

At the heart of the Foundation’s work is the Sidney B. Williams, Jr. Scholar Program, its flagship initiative. Since its inception in 2002, the program has awarded more than $2.7 million in scholarships to over 190 law students, helping to ignite interest in IP careers and easing the financial burden of legal education at a time when tuition costs continue to rise.

What began as a program supporting law students already enrolled has since evolved. Today, the Scholar Program is tailored to assist prospective law students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, as they navigate the law school admissions process and prepare for careers in patent law.

Comprehensive Support from Pre-Law to Practice

The Sidney B. Williams, Jr. Scholar Program offers a holistic support structure, including:

• Mentorship and career-readiness coaching through the law school application process

• Financial assistance for LSAT preparation, application fees, and law school tuition

• Support for professional development, including resources to study for and take the Patent Bar Exam

• Access to networking and learning opportunities through participation in national IP bar associations, such as the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) and the ABA Section of Intellectual Property Law

• An annual Convocation of Scholars—a cornerstone event that connects Scholars with leaders across the IP community

A Community Effort: Empowering the Next Generation Together

In partnership with law firms, corporations, and professional associations, the Foundation extends its impact beyond financial aid. Through one-on-one mentoring, coaching, and career advising, the Foundation works to ensure Scholars from diverse backgrounds are not only welcomed into the profession—but positioned to thrive in it.

The success of this work depends on the commitment of our partners—law firms, corporate legal departments, and individual professionals—who support Scholars through:

• Volunteer mentorship from practicing patent attorneys

• Summer internship opportunities

• Access to professional networks

• Career placement support and guidance

Together, we’re shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic future for the intellectual property law profession.