1、epo.orgMapping investors for European innovatorsIntroducing the Technology Investor ScoreJanuary 2025epo.org|02MAPPING INVESTORS FOR EUROPEAN INNOVATORSForeword Startups play a crucial role in commercialising disruptive ideas with great potential to drive progress.However,as highlighted in Mario Dra
2、ghis landmark report,many innovative companies face financial obstacles to growth within Europe,preventing innovation from translating into startups and scalable businesses,and prompting entrepreneurs to expand abroad.Addressing this funding gap is essential to fostering innovation and reigniting su
3、stainable growth in Europe.Recognising the funding challenges faced by innovators in Europe,the EPO has engaged in multiple initiatives aligned with our mission to foster innovation,competitiveness and economic growth.Our commitment is evident in our updated patent fee system,which now includes sign
4、ificant reductions for micro-entities,simplified fee structures and incentives for digitalisation.As a leading source of technical information on innovation,we are also trusted partners to key players in financing innovation such as the European Innovation Council(EIC).The EPOs Observatory on Patent
5、s and Technology has prioritised financing of innovation as a core area of interest.This focus is reflected in the release of specialised tools such as the Deep Tech Finder,which simplifies the process for discovering European universities,spin-outs and other investment-ready startups with patent ap
6、plications at the EPO.On the occasion of the launch of this study,the tool has now been updated with a new filter for finding investors.The Deep Tech Finder,related studies and other material relevant for financing innovation are available on a new section of the EPO website(epo.org/financing-innova