This underlines Baden-Württemberg’s importance as a key innovation hub for patents in Germany and a major driver of technological progress. “Baden-Württemberg remains by far at the top of patent applications in Germany. Around 36 percent of all applications nationwide come from the Southwest alone. This once again demonstrates that Baden-Württemberg continues to have a strong innovation system, despite sometimes significant upheavals in key industries. This is an important signal for our business location and its development,” says Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism.
Highest Patent Density: Patents in Baden-Württemberg Per Capita
Baden-Württemberg also leads in patents in Germany relative to population. According to the 2025 annual report of the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA), the state registers 135 patents per 100,000 inhabitants. This high patent density highlights the innovative strength of the region and the central role of patent applications in Baden-Württemberg for Germany’s economic competitiveness. As in previous years, the automotive industry remains the sector with the highest number of patent applications in Baden-Württemberg, while trademarks and utility models are gaining significance. “Strong growth in the field of electrical engineering and especially in computer technology shows that the state is positioning itself well for the future, since this includes many applications that rely on artificial intelligence,” the minister adds.
Companies from Baden-Württemberg Dominate Patents in Germany
The high number of patent applications in Baden-Württemberg is primarily driven by large industrial companies, which are also among the top contributors to patents in Germany. Leading the list is Robert Bosch GmbH with 4,109 patent applications, followed by Mercedes-Benz Group AG with 2,726 applications. Other top 10 contributors to patent applications in Germany include: Porsche AG (Rank 6, 1,437 applications) and ZF Friedrichshafen (Rank 10, 697 applications). These companies exemplify the state’s innovation strength and its high share of patents in Germany.
Growth in Patent Applications in Germany Driven by Future Technologies
In total, patent applications in Germany rose by 4.7 percent in 2025. The electrical engineering sector showed particularly strong growth (+9.1 percent). The DPMA attributes this development to innovation in digital technologies and battery technology. Electric drives and their components remain a key area for patents in Germany, with increasing relevance for future mobility and energy systems.
Baden-Württemberg Remains Innovation Hub for Patents in Germany
The latest figures make it clear: patent applications in Baden-Württemberg are a cornerstone of Germany’s innovation landscape. With its strong industrial base, high patent density, and focus on future technologies, Baden-Württemberg continues to lead in patents in Germany and drive the development of new technologies in 2025.
Source: Press release Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor and Tourism Baden-Württemberg
