Observatory on Patents and Technology

Driven by expertise and moving towards a deeper understanding of the future of innovation

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New economic study

Standards and the European patent system

Explore the interplay of patents and standards shaping the future of innovation
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Economic study

New frontiers in oncology innovation

Discover emerging trends and how startups are driving innovation in oncology
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Programme

Financing innovation

Explore our programme for financing innovation, related studies and resources
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Programme

Startups and SMEs

Find studies and other online resources on how patents support startups and SMEs
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Topics

The Observatory's activities cover a range of topics on innovation and key technologies, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Discover our research findings, platforms and events:

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Policy and funding

The potential for innovation depends heavily on the surrounding ecosystem, especially on regulations, policy and funding opportunities. Explore how these factors interact with patenting and innovation.

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Innovation actors

Startups, universities and companies all play a key role in advancing innovation. Discover how they engage with the patent system to protect and grow their ideas.

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Deep Tech Finder

If you are seeking investment or tracking innovative startups, the Deep Tech Finder offers insights and connects key players in the deep tech ecosystem. Customise your research and explore the map to find startups or universities with European patent applications and the investors supporting these inventions in Europe.

To the Deep Tech Finder

Publications and tools

Access economic studies and technology insight reports developed by innovation economists, patent analysts and patent examiners from the EPO, as well as external partners. Also, explore data tools that can help you access insights into the state of technology and IP.

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Economic studies

Patent and economic data offer powerful insights into the future of innovation. Our studies explore key questions such as how universities use the patent system or how patents support access to funding.

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Technology insight reports

Find specific insights into cutting-edge technologies with our advanced reports covering areas like mRNA technologies or propulsion systems for space.

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Tools

Access high-quality patent data and information with our user-friendly tools, designed for both IP professionals and those new to the world of patents.

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About the Observatory

As a first port of call for anyone interested in innovation, the Observatory is dedicated to research and knowledge dissemination, putting EPO data and expertise at the service of the innovation ecosystem.

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More about the Observatory

Learn more about our mission, structure and the way we collaborate with key stakeholders, including experts from national patent offices of EPO member states.

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Current work plan

Our activities are guided by a biannual work plan that outlines key research priorities and outreach initiatives across a set of innovation-related topics.

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Economic analysis

Our research blends economic and technology expertise with in-depth patent analysis. Discover the Chief Economist Unit driving our evidence-based approach.

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News