WASHINGTON (February 19, 2025) — The Council for Innovation Promotion (C4IP) applauds the confirmation of Howard Lutnick as the new U.S. Secretary of Commerce. Secretary Lutnick, a highly respected leader in business and finance, brings a wealth of experience and a firm commitment to fostering American innovation and economic growth.
“Secretary Lutnick’s confirmation marks a pivotal moment for America’s innovation ecosystem,” said Andrei Iancu, board co-chair of C4IP and former Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and USPTO Director from 2018 to 2021. “As an experienced business leader, inventor, and patent holder, he is uniquely positioned to spearhead the forward-thinking, pro-intellectual property economic policy agenda that America needs.”
Secretary Lutnick has long been an advocate for policies that promote business development, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement. As Secretary of Commerce, C4IP hopes he will continue championing efforts that strengthen intellectual property rights — driving investment in critical fields and reinforcing U.S. leadership in the global economy.
“IP rights are instrumental to U.S. economic growth, job creation, and national security,” said David Kappos, board co-chair of C4IP and former Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and USPTO Director from 2009 to 2013. “Secretary Lutnick’s steadfast commitment to defending these rights will serve him well as he strives to foster innovation and bolster American technological competitiveness.”
“America’s innovation economy relies on leaders who recognize the value of a strong IP system,” said Frank Cullen, executive director of C4IP. “With Secretary Lutnick at the helm of the Commerce Department, we are confident that American inventors and businesses will be empowered to push boundaries to shape the technologies of tomorrow.”
C4IP looks forward to working with Secretary Lutnick and the Commerce Department to advance policies that protect inventors, incentivize innovation, and promote U.S. economic leadership through a strong intellectual property framework.
About Council for Innovation Promotion: The Council for Innovation Promotion is a bipartisan coalition dedicated to promoting strong and effective intellectual property rights that drive innovation, boost economic competitiveness, and improve lives everywhere.