While US multinationals dominate, Europe is the leading region for quantum technology patents
Photo credits: Marko Aliaksandr / Big Stock
Between 2016 and 2025, annual applications to patent quantum technology in Europe rose nearly sixfold, from 186 to 1,089, one of the sharpest rises seen by the European Patent Office (EPO) in any field.
Although still a small number compared to the 200,000 plus applications the EPO received in 2025, the trend indicates the momentum building in the nascent quantum industry.
The data comes from a https://datadesk.epo.org/collections…
Discover the latest in research funding every Tuesday with Funding Newswire. Dive into detailed articles with our monthly or yearly subscriptions or start with a free trial
NOTE: if you're a part of one of our Network member organisations, you get free access by signing up with your institutional email. Verify your eligibility here.
Receive the Funding Newswire [full access requires a subscription] each Tuesday, our Policy Bulletin each Thursday, and the fortnightly R&D Express, tracking reforms and investments in central and eastern Europe. 
A unique international forum for public research organisations and companies to connect their external engagement with strategic interests around their R&D system.