​​EPO and European Commission (DG Research and Innovation) sign landmark agreement​

Steve Rowan, EPO Vice-President Patent Granting Process and Marc Lemaître, European Commission’s Director-General of DG Research and Innovation

The European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD) have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to enhance their cooperation in knowledge valorisation and further promote efficient management of intellectual assets. The partnership will help the European Research Area (ERA) translate research into economic and societal benefits in alignment with the Draghi Report, which encourages technology to drive progress and tackle challenges.  

Leveraging expertise to understand the innovation landscape 

Over the past three years, the EPO and the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) have worked closely in the transition and pathfinder programmes to help SMEs maximise their innovation potential. Through these efforts, both DG RTD and the EPO have seen the tangible benefits of strong cooperation, particularly for innovative SMEs. 

Taking stock of these positive achievements, this cooperation agreement lays the foundation for joint awareness campaigns, training and events to highlight the importance of intellectual asset management, and initiatives to boost the potential of SMEs and start-ups. It strengthens the cooperation agreements between the EPO and key EU players, establishing DG RTD as the EPO's key partner within the European Commission for supporting Europe's innovation and competitiveness ecosystem. 

Enhancing existing measures  

When it launched in 2023, the Unitary Patent system marked the start of a new era in patenting, simplifying patent procedures and lowering associated costs. However, unlocking the full potential of IP for innovators requires integration throughout the entire innovation cycle, from project funding to commercialisation. This agreement represents a key step toward achieving that goal. 

The EPO supports innovators through tools such as the Deep Tech Finder and free IP courses via its Patent Academy. Along with its Observatory studies, including upcoming reports on universities and innovation financing, these EPO resources enhance understanding of the EU's research and innovation landscape.  

About the DG RTD and ERA 

The DG RTD leads EU policy on research, science and innovation, aiming to boost competitiveness, address societal challenges and support the green and digital transitions. The ERA seeks to create a single market for research and innovation across the EU, aligning policies to translate research into economic value and ensure Europe's technological leadership.