EPO publishes the European Patent Academy’s 2026 training catalogue

The EPO has released its new training catalogue, featuring more than 150 activities covering the entire life cycle of an invention, from research to market and beyond. With over 2 000 hours of content, the programme supports flexible, digital learning, knowledge sharing and professional development for a diverse audience, including patent professionals, judges, businesses and universities.

The Academy’s catalogue reflects the EPO’s continued commitment to fostering innovation through knowledge. It reinforces the EPO’s engagement with its partners, particularly within the European Patent Network and its growing global community. The catalogue is structured around four key areas: patent granting, patent information and tools, technology transfer and dissemination, and patent litigation.

New learning resources for 2026

The 2026 edition introduces new and enhanced modules on inventive step and sufficiency of disclosure, advanced courses on the ANSERA-based SEARCH tool, continuous professional development for patent attorneys and paralegals, as well as updated modular training for the EQE and EPAC. New lectures on mediation and arbitration complete the litigation training area.

In the area of technology transfer, new activities include an RTTP-recognised course on patent valuation, initiatives linked to forthcoming EPO Observatory studies, and an advanced learning path for patent information centres (PATLIBs) and national offices.

Well-established events for IP professionals offer additional opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration across the innovation ecosystem. These include the “Matters” conference series, Boards of Appeal Case Law Conference and multiple workshops on patentability, as well as the European Judges Forum, EQE tutors meeting and the PATLIB annual conference.

A new e-learning centre designed for easier, more engaging learning 

The e-learning centre has been redesigned to provide a modern, intuitive platform that offers a more interactive, accessible and enjoyable learning experience. Advanced search options and improved navigation help users identify training opportunities tailored to their needs. Engaging learning elements and a customisable user dashboard further contribute to a more dynamic and user-centred learning environment.

The expanded range of self-paced online courses supports inclusive and flexible learning. Highlights include structured modules with final assessments to track progress, as well as additional resources such as tutorials, recorded training sessions and topic-specific publications.

Transitioning to the redesigned e-learning centre is easy for all users, as user accounts, credentials, certificates and progress have all been carried forward to the new platform.

Advancing intellectual property education across Europe

IP education can be crucial to professional development. The Academy’s efforts build on the foundations of a patent system that serves society, promotes sustainability and inspires the next generation of innovators. Key initiatives such as the Modular Intellectual Property Education Framework (MIPEF) and the Young Professionals Programme further integrate IP into university curricula and create career opportunities for talented graduates.