EPO highlights Europe’s growing quantum innovation ecosystem
Europe’s quantum and AI ecosystem gains visibility through new EPO innovation tools.
The European Patent Office (EPO) highlighted Europe’s growing quantum and AI innovation ecosystem during Servus Scale Up 2026 in Munich, pointing to rapid growth in quantum patenting and new initiatives to help startups commercialise deep-tech innovation.
The event brought together around 200 French and Bavarian startups, investors, researchers, technology transfer experts and policymakers to strengthen cross-border cooperation and support deep-tech entrepreneurship in strategically important technologies.
EPO Vice President Christoph Ernst said quantum patenting in Europe has increased fivefold over the past decade. According to recent EPO findings, annual growth has averaged around 20%, significantly outpacing overall patent growth.
The EPO also showcased initiatives designed to support innovators and investors. Its Deep Tech Finder now includes nearly 150 European quantum startups.
Other initiatives, including the EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology, the joint OECD study on quantum technologies, the Quantum Technology Platform and the recently launched EPO Data Desk, provide patent intelligence, market insights and analytical tools to help identify emerging opportunities and support investment decisions.
The EPO noted that although Europe has a strong research and innovation base in quantum technologies, access to funding remains more limited than in the United States. By combining patent data with market intelligence, the Office aims to help startups scale, attract investment and strengthen Europe’s long-term competitiveness in quantum technologies and AI.
Why does it matter?
Quantum technologies are expected to play an increasingly important role in fields ranging from cybersecurity and communications to healthcare and advanced computing. Strong patent activity suggests Europe remains competitive in research, but commercial success will also depend on access to investment and the ability to scale innovative companies.
By combining patent intelligence with tools for investors and startups, the EPO is seeking to strengthen Europe’s deep-tech ecosystem and improve the commercialisation of emerging technologies. This reflects a broader European effort to translate scientific leadership into long-term industrial competitiveness.
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