Sweden once again leads the EU in innovation, according to the newly released European Innovation Scoreboard 2025 published by the European Commission. Stockholm also tops the list as Europe’s most innovative region.
After ranking second behind Denmark since 2023, Sweden reclaims its position as the EU’s top innovator. This achievement is the result of several factors, notably the sustained long-term investments and the strong commitment to innovation within the private sector.
Sweden’s leadership emphasizes that innovation is not just the goal, but a key strategy for strengthening the country’s competitiveness and tackling today’s most pressing challenges, including the climate transition.
Regional leadership
Sweden is one of the few countries with multiple regions included in the top ten of the Regional Innovation Scoreboard. Stockholm claims first place, while West Sweden and Southern Sweden rank ninth and tenth, respectively. North-Central Sweden has also advanced since 2023 and is now recognised as a “strong innovator”.
Read the official press release by Sweden’s Ministry of Climate and Enterprise and Ministry of Education and Research (in Swedish) here.
Explore the full European Innovation Scoreboard 2025 here.
