07.11.2024EPO Study reveals: Switzerland ranks 2nd in Europe for Patents Per Capita

Switzerland once again demonstrates its innovative prowess, ranking second in Europe for patents per capita, according to a new study from the European Patent Office (EPO). The study highlights the role of European universities in fostering innovation and shaping the future through patenting.

Following impressive outtakes:

• Smaller countries like Switzerland show the highest number of academic patents per university on average
• With 772 patents per million people, Switzerland stands out and institutions like the Universität Zürich | University of Zurich, EPFL and ETH Zürich leading the way
• In terms of startups with academic patent applications at the European Patent Office, the UZH ranks 12th with 60 startups, after ETH Zürich leading with 101 startups.
• Among seven other countries, Switzerland shows a significant increase of the share of academic patents directly filed by universities.

Maria Olivares (Head UZH Innovation) was part of the panel, which accompanied the launch of the study, discussing with leading voices the potential of innovation in European Universities. Maria Olivares highlighted key factors behind Switzerland’s success in academic patenting: «Good framework conditions supporting innovation, academic funding programs and companies who are willing to invest in R&D.» 

But we are not going to rest on our laurels, because «Universities can even expand their role by promoting entrepreneurial education and providing funding structures to support researchers in turning their ideas into viable products”, adds Maria Olivares. 

Click here for the complete recording of the panel discussion
Breakout Sessions
Discover the full EPO Study here