World IP Day: VITO in Belgium’s top 10 with 49 international patent applications
Today is World Intellectual Property Day, a moment to raise global awareness of the importance of intellectual property as a driver of innovation and technological progress. At VITO, it is above all an opportunity to thank our researchers who are helping to build the innovations of tomorrow.
Flanders strong on the European innovation map
Belgium remains a strong player in technological innovation. In 2024, no fewer than 2,615 patent applications were submitted to the European Patent Office (EPO), 66% of which originated from Flanders.
Flanders also makes a strong impression at European level. Flanders has climbed to 9th place in the ranking of regions with the highest number of patent applications. A significant leap forward compared to 2023. This places Flanders among Europe’s leading regions, alongside Munich, North Brabant, and Île-de-France.
VITO in 8th position: innovative power and efficiency
In the Belgian top 10 of companies and institutions with the highest number of international (PCT) patent applications, VITO holds an impressive 8th place, with 49 patents among 1,100 employees. That equates to an average of one patent per 22 employees. A remarkable ratio that highlights both our innovative strength and operational efficiency.
This firmly positions VITO among Belgium’s leading innovators, alongside organisations such as imec, UMICORE, KU Leuven, and Ghent University. For comparison: imec leads the list with 203 patents but has more than 5,500 employees. VITO therefore excels in translating scientific knowledge into tangible, protected innovations.
From invention to impact
At VITO, innovation does not stop at an idea or an invention. Our patents are not an end point, but the beginning of something bigger: the translation of technology into real impact on the society. Each patent is the result of in-depth research, but its true value emerges only when it leads to applications that help improve our world.
That’s why we actively collaborate with industry, governments, and other research institutions to bring our innovations beyond the laboratory. Think of technologies that contribute to a more sustainable energy system, circular materials, smarter cities, or improved healthcare. Patents help us to protect knowledge, but above all, to deploy it purposefully where it can make a real difference.
We therefore consider our patents as strategic levers. They enable us to build long-term partnerships, commercialise innovations, and accelerate sustainable solutions. In this way, we contribute not only to technological progress but also to societal transitions in Flanders, Belgium, and far beyond.
Innovation is inclusive
Sustainable innovation is most powerful when it is inclusive. In 2024, at least one female inventor was involved in 32% of the Belgian patent applications. This places Belgium among the European top, just behind Spain (42%). At VITO, we also strive for inclusive innovation, where all talents contribute to sustainable progress. Diversity in perspectives enhances both the quality and the societal relevance of our innovations.
A big thank you to our researchers
Behind every patent is a team of passionate researchers. They are the silent forces working day in and day out on solutions for the challenges of tomorrow. Their curiosity, creativity, and perseverance are the driving force behind our innovation culture and make VITO a breeding ground for ideas that really make a difference.
World IP Day is therefore more than just a moment to share numbers. It is an opportunity to reflect on what really matters: the people who transform knowledge into progress, who dare to explore new paths, and who connect technology to societal relevance.
We are extremely proud of their work, whether it is fundamental research, technological development, or the successful application for a patent. Each one of them contributes to our mission: helping the world thrive for at least 1,000 more years.
Source: Department WEWIS
