Most Innovative Countries 2024

Innovation is key for a country to remain competitive on the global stage. A country’s innovation includes its government, fiscal policies, education policies, and innovation environment (innovation inputs) as well as its patents, technology, business performance, and economic growth (innovation outputs). Innovation is a major factor in determining which countries are the most technologically advanced countries in the world. Which countries are the most innovative?

One way to discuss innovation by country is to refer to the annual Bloomberg Innovation Index which analyzes 60 nations using dozens of criteria grouped into seven metrics: research and development, gross value added by manufacturing, productivity, high-tech company density, researcher concentration, tertiary efficiency, and patent activity. While the Bloomberg analysis is ostensibly focused upon the innovation of a nation's economy, the categories are so broad and comprehensive—and economies are so deeply entwined in most other aspects of life—that the analysis is often interpreted as a measure of not merely economic innovation, but innovation as a whole.

While the Bloomberg Innovation Index offers valid and valuable insights into the state of innovation worldwide, the Global Innovation Index (GII) by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) provides a more comprehensive way to measure innovation by country. The GII assesses the innovation performance of 132 economies, categorizing innovation into two types – innovation inputs and outputs. Innovation inputs describe such elements as institutions, human capital, and infrastructure. Innovation outputs discuss such areas as knowledge creation and technological advancements. This holistic approach takes into account the strengths and opportunities for improvement in each country's innovation ecosystem, making the GII a more inclusive measure of overall innovation.

Top 10 Most Innovative Countries in the World - GII by WIPO 2023

In the index's 2023 edition, Switzerland retains its title as the most innovative country in the world, a position it has held for 13 consecutive years. The country excels in research and development (R&D) intensity, ranking third globally and maintaining high ranks in innovation outputs such as patents and technology development. Switzerland’s private sector accounts for more than two-thirds of its R&D expenditure, contributing significantly to its innovation leadership.

Ranking second in 2023, Sweden has consistently performed well in the Global Innovation Index over the years. This is thanks to significant investment in research and development and high-tech innovation. Historically, Sweden has been a leader in innovation, consistently placing within the top five GII rankings. This is thanks in large part to the country's robust innovation ecosystem and commitment to encouraging creativity and supporting technological advancement. In 2020 and 2021, Sweden also ranked second, which showed its sustained excellence in innovation.

The United States has consistently placed in the top three in the past five years, with its concentration of high-tech companies. Home to world-leading technology companies such as Google, Facebook, Apple, and Microsoft, the United States is a powerhouse in global technology. Silicon Valley inspired and produced an entire generation of software engineers and technology companies and is currently home to some of the world's biggest tech companies. The U.S. has made significant advances in space technology, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications. The U.S. also has the largest and most technologically advanced military in the world. However, the United States' scores for higher education decreased in 2020/21, particularly in the government's policies toward international students and the way universities responded to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The United Kingdom ranks fourth, the position it has held for five out of six years since 2018, only slipping to number five in 2019, just behind the Netherlands. The UK has been strong in R&D and has housed a high concentration of researchers. The country is known for its vibrant tech ecosystem and supportive government policies that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.

Singapore holds the fifth spot, thanks to its rising productivity, manufacturing gains, and a robust focus on education. The country has been placing in the top 10 GII rankings since at least 2018. Notably, Singapore's tertiary education enrollment rate stood at about 97% in 2021, enabling a highly skilled workforce. To compare, this enrollment rate in the United States was about 85% in 2021, (World Bank, 2022).

Finland ranks sixth, excelling in technology and high-tech solutions. Finnish innovations include the Linux operating system and text messaging. Finland has been diversely innovative. Its well-rounded and strategic approach encompasses multiple areas, from education and research to technology and business environment. The country is clearly committed to creating an ecosystem in which innovation can thrive.

The Netherlands ranks seventh, based on high-tech density, researcher concentration, and patent activity. Europe’s largest supplier of high-tech goods, the Netherlands has established itself as a hub for innovation and technology.

Germany, consistently placing in the top 10 since at least 2018, remains an innovation powerhouse. The country is most known for its engineering, home to Volkswagen, Siemens, and more. Germany's government strongly supports research and development through both universities and organizations. Additionally, Germany is now a global leader in medicine, military technology, and infrastructure.

Denmark ranks ninth, known for its high researcher concentration and significant efforts in R&D. Denmark's investment in health services R&D and productivity makes it a key player in the global innovation landscape.

South Korea rounds out the top ten, renowned for its patent activity and high-tech company density. Home to such major companies as Samsung, LG, and Hyundai, South Korea continues to lead in technological advancements and innovation outputs.

Additional Noteworthy Countries

France, at 11th place, is home to leading tech companies such as Dassault Systèmes and continues to advance in innovation through strong government support and a vibrant tech ecosystem.

China, ranked 12th, remains the only middle-income economy in the top 30. China is not shy to invest in R&D and significant technological progress, an attitude that has solidified its position as a global innovation leader.

Japan, placed 13th, excels in high-tech manufacturing and research outputs. Japan's commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous advancements in technology and engineering.

Israel, ranking 14th in 2023, leads the world in R&D intensity and researcher concentration. Israel's competitive edge in the global R&D market is bolstered by its large pool of STEM talent and entrepreneurial culture. Many tech giants like Apple, IBM, and Microsoft have an R&D presence in Israel.