Public consultation on the EPO Observatory

Initial list of topics for the biennial workplan 2026-27

The new workplan will be structured into three major themes:

• Breaking barriers to the innovation ecosystem,
• Shaping a better future with technology,
• Empowering innovation actors.

Topic 1: climate change and energy crisis:

• Technologies for sustainability
• The future of mobility

Topic 2: startups and SMEs:

• Patents and Market Success of Tech Startups: examining the role of Unitary Patents (UPs)

Topic 3: academic and research institutions:

• Knowledge Transfer Offices (KTOs) and spinouts in Europe

Topic 4: financing innovation:

• IP Management and Valuation Capabilities  
• Mapping IP lending institutions

Topic 5:  D&I in innovative activities:

• Fostering innovation skills among European youth
• Women in STEM

Topic 6: the health sector:

• Improving transparency & helping mechanisms to access medicines
• Neurodegenerative or cardiovascular diseases

Topic 7: standards and patents  

• Standards and patents   (follow-up study)

Topic 8: critical technology areas for Europe:

• Penetration of AI in technologies

Topic 9: science and innovation careers:

• Looking at the innovation skills gap in Europe

Topic 10: the Unitary Patent as an engine to innovation:

• UP uptake 
• Patents and Market Success of Tech Startups: examining the role of Unitary Patents   (cross project with Topic 2 Startups and SMEs)