European Innovation in 2024: Insights from the EPO Patent Index

Innovation in Europe has shown remarkable resilience in 2024, according to the newly published Patent Index 2024 by the European Patent Office (EPO). Despite geopolitical uncertainties and economic headwinds, companies and inventors around the world filed over 193,000 patent applications at the EPO—matching the historic highs of 2023.

As intellectual property professionals, we at IP Brigade believe that understanding these trends isn’t just interesting—it’s essential for innovators who want to stay ahead in a fast-changing global landscape. Let’s break down the key takeaways from this year’s report and what they mean for inventors, startups, and businesses alike.

Global Innovation Trends Remain Resilient

While overall filings saw a marginal dip of -0.1%, this followed three consecutive years of significant growth. Notably:

Europe: Patent filings from EPO member states rose by 0.3% Non-European countries: Fell slightly by -0.4% South Korea: Led the growth chart at +4.2% China: Maintained upward momentum at +0.5% USA & Japan: Saw minor declines in applications

➤ What this means: Despite challenges, innovation continues to thrive. With Asian economies scaling up their R&D efforts, European businesses must double down on strategic IP investment to maintain competitiveness.

Computer Technology Surges Ahead

For the first time ever, computer technology—including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and pattern recognition—was the top technical field, clocking 16,815 patent applications. Meanwhile:

Electrical machinery and energy grew by +8.9% Battery innovation surged by a massive +24.0% Digital communication saw a decline of -6.3%

➤ What this means: There’s a clear pivot toward digital transformation and clean energy solutions. These are the sectors where IP protection will be most valuable in the years to come.

Who’s Leading in Europe?

Germany (+0.4%) and France (+1.1%) remained top contributors Switzerland (+3.2%) and the UK (+3.1%) posted the strongest growth Rising stars: Ireland (+4.4%), Spain (+3.0%), Finland (+2.7%)

Switzerland retained its top spot in patents per capita, with Nordic countries not far behind.

➤ What this means:

Smaller European countries are becoming innovation powerhouses. Startups and R&D-intensive industries in these regions are leveraging the EPO system to protect their innovations at scale.

Women and Small Entities Gaining Ground

The Rise of the Unitary Patent

Now in its second year, the Unitary Patent has surpassed expectations:

28,000+ requests in 2024—a 53% increase over 2023

➤ What this means:

With simpler, cost-effective protection across 18 EU countries, the Unitary Patent system is a game-changer for companies wanting to scale fast across Europe.

At IP Brigade, we help inventors and businesses navigate the complexities of intellectual property with confidence. Our services include:

Patentability and Novelty Searches Freedom to Operate (FTO) Reports Patent Filing Strategy and Drafting Unitary Patent Advisory Services Competitor Patent Landscape Analysis

Innovation doesn’t pause—and neither should your IP strategy. Contact us today to turn your ideas into protected assets.

Stay informed. Stay protected. Stay ahead—with IP Brigade.

The Patent Index 2024 confirms that IP is at the heart of global competitiveness. Whether you’re a tech startup, an academic institution, or a global enterprise, your patent strategy should align with these evolving trends.

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