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
In 2024:
25% of European patent applications included at least one woman inventor
22% of filings came from SMEs and individual inventors
An additional 7% were filed by universities and public research institutions
Fee reductions introduced in April 2024 are helping micro-entities and non-profits file more patents
➤ What this means:
The EPO is becoming more inclusive and accessible, empowering a broader range of innovators to protect and commercialize their ideas.
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
36.5% uptake rate from EPO member states
High adoption among European SMEs and universities (57.5%)
Top requestors: Johnson & Johnson, Siemens, Samsung, Qualcomm, Volvo Group
➤ 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.
What Should Innovators Do Now?
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.
How IP Brigade Can Support Your Innovation Journey
At IP Brigade, we help inventors and businesses navigate the complexities of intellectual property with confidence. Our services include:
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.