Finalists Announced for the 2026 European Inventor Award

The European Patent Office (EPO) has unveiled the twelve finalists for the 2026 European Inventor Award, recognising groundbreaking inventors whose work is helping address some of today’s most pressing global challenges.

This year’s finalists represent a broad range of technological fields, including biotechnology, healthcare, renewable energy, semiconductors, food technology, quantum computing, rail innovation, and advanced manufacturing. Their inventions contribute to more sustainable, efficient, and resilient solutions across industries and society.

The finalists are grouped into four categories: Industry, SMEs, Research, and Non-EPO Countries. Among the selected innovators are teams developing advances in digital storage technologies, nanofibre manufacturing, malaria vaccines, smart battery recycling, quantum computing sensors, and sustainable air purification systems.

Public voting for the Popular Prize is now open and will remain available until the award ceremony livestream in Berlin on 2 July 2026. The Popular Prize winner will be selected through a combination of jury evaluation and public votes, while winners in all categories will also be announced during the ceremony.

The European Inventor Award celebrates not only technological excellence but also the role of innovation and intellectual property in shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.