At Enthereal, we recognize the tensions involved in utilizing the patent system while working to empower communities. However, we believe that when used judiciously, patents can help independent entities secure resources to realize their social value.
In the pharmaceutical industry, production process patents enable companies to gain temporary monopolies and profits. Yet for Enthereal, potential process patents serve a different purpose – attracting the investment required to provide affordable access to essential medicines.
We intend to achieve essential medicine supply resilience. Our aim is not building monopolies, but catalyzing access. We will explore ways to encourage licensing and knowledge-sharing while covering costs and empowering important research.
Some view patents as incongruous with open science. But when not used exploitatively, they can shield public interest work from co-optation. Profit-driven forces have an advantage in scaling innovations quickly. Thoughtful patenting helps people-centered projects compete in delivering social goods.
At Enthereal, we are experimenting with using existing tools like patents to pave the way for new, more ethical models. With care, IP can act as a bridge — not a barrier — to improving access for underserved communities. We aim to be transparent about both the powers and limitations of patents in serving people over profits.
Ultimately, our goal is catalyzing change to support knowledge as a common good. But abstaining from the current system would ignore regenerative opportunities for people to have more access to health and wellness. We hope to demonstrate how patient-centered organizations can strategically use patents on the journey to a more open, equitable future.
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