Building the Next Generation of Intellectual Property and Technology Lawyers
The HNBA/VIA Intellectual Property Law Institute (IPLI™) is a premier intellectual property and technology law immersion program held annually in Washington, DC. Since its launch in 2013, IPLI has helped prepare aspiring attorneys for careers in intellectual property, technology, privacy, entertainment, fashion, and innovation-focused legal practice.
Each year, a highly competitive cohort of law students from across the country is selected to participate in a week-long educational experience that combines substantive legal programming, mentorship, professional development, networking, and exposure to the nation's leading legal institutions.
About IPLI™
IPLI was founded through a visionary partnership between Microsoft and the Hispanic National Bar Association to address the underrepresentation of Hispanic attorneys in intellectual property and technology law. What began as a bold idea has grown into a nationally recognized program that has positively impacted hundreds of future attorneys.
Today, IPLI serves as a pipeline connecting talented law students with leading practitioners, judges, government officials, and corporate counsel while providing practical insight into the real-world practice of intellectual property law.
What Scholars Experience
IPLI Alumni Impact Snapshot (2013–2026)
- 351 alumni across 14 cohorts
- 72% of respondents are already in the workforce, reflecting sustained engagement beyond law school
Professional Outcomes (among practicing alumni):
- 65% are practicing in IP, sports & entertainment, or science & technology law
Technical & Specialized Strength:
- 39% of alumni have STEM backgrounds
- 34% are patent bar eligible or have passed the patent bar
Lasting Impact
IPLI is more than a week-long program.
Scholars gain access to a growing national network of attorneys, mentors, alumni, and industry leaders committed to helping them navigate and succeed in intellectual property law. Continued mentorship, professional connections, and career opportunities help extend the impact of the program long after the week in Washington concludes.
Recent scholar survey results demonstrate the program's effectiveness.
Current Co-Chairs
Our Sponsors & Partners
IPLI is made possible through the support of leading law firms, corporations, government institutions, alumni, and volunteers who invest in the development of future legal leaders.
Sponsors contribute not only financial support but also mentorship, educational programming, networking opportunities, and career guidance for scholars throughout the program. Many sponsors have gone on to hire IPLI alumni and remain active partners year after year.
Get Involved
Future Scholars
Learn more about the application process and join our mailing list to be notified when applications open.
Sponsors
Support the next generation of intellectual property attorneys through sponsorship, mentorship, and speaker opportunities. Please email Carla Martin, Director of Programs, at cmartin@hnba.com.
IPLI Alumni
Stay connected through mentorship, networking events, volunteer opportunities, and alumni engagement initiatives. If you have not completed this IPLI Alumni Directory, please update your information here.
