European patents are not just for big industry applicants. Around 21% of patent
applications filed at the EPO by European applicants come from small or
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individual inventors, with a further 5% from
universities and public research organisations from which SMEs are often spun off
to commercialise new technologies. Therefore, SMEs that use European patents
are typically driven by innovation and focused on scaling up their activities.
This section looks at how new and established SMEs use IP to protect and market
their inventions as well as leverage them to secure higher margins, license
technology, establish collaboration agreements with partners and attract
investors.
Support for high-growth technology businesses
A major driver of Europe's economic growth, high-growth technology businesses are typically SMEs or start-ups that succeed in bringing innovation to established and new industry sectors.
This section provides information for businesses looking to successfully commercialise their technologies.
Innovation case studies
A series of innovation case studies on European SMEs and university spin-offs sheds light on how innovators are leveraging the power of patents and other IP rights to create value and support their businesses.
Podcast series on IP as key commercial asset
This podcast series helps inventors, researchers, entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the potential of IP to take their first steps in the business world. IP experts from all over Europe share their inspirational stories, know-how and strategies to help you turn your idea into a business.
