Fraunhofer Leads Europe in Patent Applications
The European Patent Office's 2025 Technology Dashboard ranks Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft as Europe's leading research institution for patent applications, reinforcing Germany's technological competitiveness.
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has been identified as Europe's leading research institution based on patent applications filed in 2025, according to the European Patent Office's (EPO) Technology Dashboard.
Fraunhofer achieved fourth place nationally in Germany and regained the lead among European public research institutions. Germany as a whole filed the most patent applications in Europe and ranked second worldwide, behind the United States. The country demonstrates strength in key future markets such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and sustainable energy systems.
Holger Hanselka, President of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, emphasized the importance of patents as indicators of technological progress and value creation. "Fraunhofer's position in Europe for patent filings demonstrates the excellence of German applied research and Germany's international leadership in key technologies," Hanselka stated.
Hanselka added that applied research must deliver tangible solutions for industry during economically challenging times to secure competitiveness and technological sovereignty. Fraunhofer's role as an industrial partner, its ability to translate research into practical applications, and its focus on future technologies reinforce its standing as a driver of economic strength.
Fraunhofer's renewed top ranking represents a strategic win for the German economy, particularly as patent applications declined in many European countries in 2025. This success underscores the critical role of research in Europe's technological sovereignty and long-term competitiveness.