Innovation is the heartbeat of the modern economy. It is what separates companies that survive from those that lead. In a world where everything is changing faster than ever before, staying ahead means doing things differently—and better.
1. Apple spent over $30 billion on R&D in 2024
Why this matters
Apple isn’t just known for sleek devices. Behind the scenes, it pours an enormous amount into research and development. Spending $30 billion on R&D in a single year shows how committed it is to pushing the limits of what’s possible.
What Apple gets right
Apple takes a long-term view. It doesn’t focus on quick wins. Instead, it invests heavily in improving the user experience, whether that’s through hardware, software, or services. This R&D spend supports internal teams, acquisitions, and partnerships that help Apple stay ahead.
The company also places huge value on product ecosystems. Rather than one-off products, Apple creates systems where everything works together. This integrated approach requires constant innovation and coordination between departments.
What you can learn
Even if your budget is tiny compared to Apple’s, the principle remains the same: spend where it matters most. Your R&D budget doesn’t have to be in billions—it just has to be purposeful. Look at where your customer experience breaks down. Improve those pain points. Innovate in your delivery, packaging, support, or pricing. Don’t aim to do everything at once. Focus on one area where you can lead.
Also, remember the power of an ecosystem. Don’t create one great product and ignore the rest. Think about how your offerings can connect to create more value together than they do alone.
2. Alphabet filed more than 18,000 patents worldwide in 2023
Why this matters
Alphabet is the parent company of Google, and it’s behind some of the most important technology in the world—from search and ads to AI and autonomous vehicles. Filing over 18,000 patents isn’t just about legal protection. It shows the scale of Alphabet’s creative output.
What Alphabet gets right
Alphabet encourages its teams to think beyond the core business. Its structure allows different groups to focus on moonshot ideas without being tied down by current profits. This is how projects like Waymo (self-driving cars) and DeepMind (AI research) are born.
Its patent filings aren’t just high in number—they also cover a wide range of industries. That level of diversity ensures the company is prepared for whatever the future holds.
What you can learn
Diversify your innovation efforts. Don’t put all your creative energy into one product or service. Allocate time to explore future-facing projects, even if they don’t make money today. Encourage your team to file patents or document new ideas. Not every idea will take off—but some will transform your business.
Consider separating out your riskier innovation work. Whether it’s a side team or a special project group, giving your people the freedom to think boldly can lead to incredible results.
3. Samsung ranked 1st globally for number of patents granted in 2023, with over 8,500 patents in the U.S. alone
Why this matters
Samsung’s rise to global innovation leadership has been nothing short of remarkable. Being granted more U.S. patents than any other company in 2023 signals that it’s not just innovating—it’s doing so at a pace and scale few can match.
What Samsung gets right
Samsung invests deeply in a wide range of tech areas—from smartphones and TVs to chips and appliances. Its ability to produce so many patents year after year comes from a structured, well-funded innovation machine.
Samsung’s research labs are global. It operates R&D centers in South Korea, the U.S., India, and more. This geographical spread gives it access to local talent and trends, which helps it move quickly.
What you can learn
Think global, act local. If you’re looking to innovate, don’t limit yourself to one market. Hire talent from different parts of the world. Bring in new perspectives.
Structure your innovation efforts. Don’t treat creativity like something that just “happens.” Build processes and teams around it. Assign budgets, timelines, and goals—just like you would with sales or marketing.
Even if you’re small, you can create your own version of an innovation lab. Set aside time each month for your team to pitch new ideas. Test fast and learn quickly.
4. Huawei filed over 7,600 international patent applications via WIPO in 2023
Why this matters
Huawei’s massive international patent activity tells a clear story: it’s not just innovating for local markets. It’s positioning itself as a major global tech player.
Filing patents through WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) signals an intent to compete worldwide. That level of strategic foresight isn’t just about protecting ideas—it’s about expanding influence.
What Huawei gets right
Huawei doesn’t just develop new technology. It builds standards for how future technologies will work. It has played a leading role in setting 5G global standards. That’s real power.
Its patent filings cover everything from hardware to software and telecommunications infrastructure. This breadth ensures it stays essential in many industries.
What you can learn
Innovation isn’t just about solving today’s problems. It’s also about shaping how your industry will work tomorrow.
If you want to lead your field, aim to be involved in setting the standards. You don’t need to dominate a global forum, but you can start by creating frameworks and best practices that others in your industry follow.
Also, don’t overlook the value of intellectual property. Whether you file patents, trademarks, or copyrights, protecting your ideas gives you a real edge—especially if you’re thinking about expansion or fundraising.
5. Microsoft ranks in the top 5 for both AI-related patents and total R&D spend, exceeding $27 billion in 2023
Why this matters
Microsoft has reinvented itself more than once. From software to cloud to AI, it continues to push forward. Spending $27 billion on R&D is a sign of a company that refuses to stand still.
Its patent activity in AI shows where it’s betting the future lies.
What Microsoft gets right
Microsoft is focused on useful innovation. Rather than chasing flashy tech for the sake of it, the company invests in tools that improve work and productivity—like Copilot in Microsoft 365.
Its partnerships (like the one with OpenAI) show another strength: knowing when to build and when to team up. By collaborating instead of competing, Microsoft gets early access to breakthrough tech.
What you can learn
Don’t just innovate for innovation’s sake. Tie your R&D efforts to actual user problems. Focus on building things that save time, reduce friction, or unlock new potential.
Also, be open to partnerships. You don’t have to build everything in-house. Find startups, researchers, or vendors who can help you move faster. Share the upside and grow together.
If you’re investing in AI, make sure it ties directly to how your users work. Don’t build AI just to follow a trend. Build it to solve real pain points.
6. IBM holds the record for most U.S. patents granted over the last 30 years, with 3,999 patents granted in 2023 alone
Why this matters
For decades, IBM has been a leader in patent production. Holding the record for the most U.S. patents across 30 years is not just a historical achievement—it shows consistent commitment to innovation, regardless of changing markets or technologies.
Getting nearly 4,000 patents in a single year is no small feat. It reflects a system that is deeply rooted in the innovation process.
What IBM gets right
IBM doesn’t chase headlines—it builds deep, foundational technologies. Many of the patents it holds are not visible to the end user but power massive systems behind the scenes—like cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, blockchain, and AI.
Its innovation model includes tight integration between research, product, and legal teams. It also actively licenses its technology to others, generating revenue through its IP portfolio.
IBM also encourages its employees to participate in the patent process. Engineers and scientists are trained and rewarded for submitting ideas. It’s not something left to a select few.
What you can learn
Innovation isn’t just for startups. Even large, established companies can remain inventive with the right culture and structure.
Set up a simple way for your team to submit ideas. Create a workflow to evaluate and protect them. Even if you don’t file patents, start documenting innovations. These may be valuable assets when talking to investors or customers.
If you operate in a technical space, look at patenting your processes or unique methods. Patents can become a long-term revenue stream if you choose to license them out.
And remember, not all innovation is flashy. Some of the most powerful work happens quietly in the background. Stay focused on substance over style.
7. Amazon spent $85 billion on R&D in 2023, the highest among all companies worldwide
Why this matters
Amazon’s R&D budget in 2023 was bigger than the GDP of some countries. Spending $85 billion on research and development is a bold statement. It shows how central innovation is to every part of its business.
This isn’t just about developing new gadgets or services—it’s about rethinking how everything works, from logistics to cloud services.
What Amazon gets right
Amazon’s innovation is operational and customer-centric. Whether it’s using robots in warehouses or AI to recommend products, everything is built to make the experience faster, better, and cheaper.
Amazon Web Services (AWS), now a major revenue driver, was born out of internal innovation. Prime, Alexa, and cashier-less stores are all examples of how Amazon turns ideas into industry-changing realities.
It also runs internal innovation competitions, like the “Working Backwards” process, where teams create press releases and FAQs for products before they even exist.
What you can learn
You don’t need billions to adopt Amazon’s mindset. Focus on how you can make your operations leaner and your customer experience smoother. Use tools and automation where possible.
Create processes to test new ideas. Even something as simple as an internal challenge can spark creativity. Get your team to think like product designers—ask them to imagine what success looks like before they build anything.
Also, be obsessive about customer needs. Ask questions, gather feedback, and analyze behavior. Innovation isn’t about having the best idea—it’s about solving the right problem.
8. Meta Platforms (Facebook) invested over $40 billion in innovation-related activities in 2023, focusing on AI and VR
Why this matters
Meta is making a big bet on the future. With more than $40 billion poured into innovation areas like AI and virtual reality, the company is showing it believes in building long before the market is ready.
This kind of investment shapes the long-term direction of entire industries, not just one product.
What Meta gets right
Meta isn’t just reacting to trends—it’s trying to define them. Projects like the Metaverse may still be early, but they represent the company’s attempt to build what’s next.
Its AI focus also supports its core business. From content moderation to personalized feeds and advertising, Meta uses AI to optimize user experience and revenue.
Meta also runs open-source initiatives and publishes research that benefits the wider community. This approach attracts top talent and keeps it at the center of tech discussions.
What you can learn
If you’re thinking long term, don’t be afraid to invest in ideas that feel early. As long as they align with your vision, early investment gives you a head start.
That said, make sure your big bets are grounded in a core skill or strength. Meta’s advantage in AI builds on its huge datasets and engineering team. Use your natural strengths as a base for innovation.
Also, don’t hoard your knowledge. Share some of your learnings through blog posts, talks, or open resources. It builds trust, attracts talent, and positions you as a thought leader.
9. TSMC ranks top among semiconductor firms for innovation, with over 2,200 patents granted in 2023
Why this matters
TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) is one of the most important companies in the world that most people have never heard of. It makes chips for Apple, NVIDIA, and many others. Without TSMC, much of the tech world would stop working.
Its innovation leadership in semiconductors is the result of constant process improvements and technical breakthroughs.
What TSMC gets right
TSMC doesn’t just manufacture chips. It constantly improves how they’re made—shrinking transistors, increasing performance, reducing heat, and lowering power usage. Its innovation is both technical and process-driven.
The company also collaborates closely with its clients, co-developing solutions that push limits. This collaborative model gives it deep insight into upcoming product needs and allows it to innovate faster.
TSMC also reinvests heavily in new fabrication plants and cutting-edge equipment, which reinforces its technological edge.
What you can learn
You don’t need to be a consumer brand to lead in innovation. Even if you’re behind the scenes, you can still set the standard in your industry.
Focus on your processes. How you do things is often just as important as what you do. Incremental improvements, when done consistently, lead to big gains over time.
Work closely with your clients. Understand what challenges they face and create solutions together. This not only builds loyalty but gives you insight you can’t get from research alone.
Finally, reinvest in the things that give you an edge. Whether that’s training, equipment, or systems—your innovation engine needs fuel.
10. Intel’s 2023 patent output exceeded 2,000 filings, largely in chip design and fabrication processes
Why this matters
Intel may not be the hot startup it once was, but it remains a critical player in the global innovation race. Filing more than 2,000 patents in a year is a clear sign that Intel is still pushing hard in its core areas of strength.
These patents reflect ongoing work in areas like chip architecture, energy efficiency, and computing power.
What Intel gets right
Intel continues to lead in areas like advanced processing, security, and design efficiency. It’s focusing on getting ahead in AI workloads and edge computing as the world shifts to more decentralized tech.
The company is also reshaping its manufacturing strategy, investing in new foundries to compete with players like TSMC. It’s betting on a mix of innovation and scale to win back leadership.
Intel also supports an open innovation approach. It works with startups, researchers, and universities to test and validate new ideas, rather than relying entirely on internal teams.
What you can learn
Even if you’re in a highly technical space, it’s important to keep evolving. Your competition won’t wait.
Use your IP to create defensible advantages. Whether it’s patents, methods, or unique systems, these assets protect your future and increase your value.
Also, build partnerships with others in your ecosystem. Innovation doesn’t have to happen in a vacuum. Universities, startups, and vendors can all help you test and scale faster.
And finally, remember to adapt your strategy over time. What worked five years ago might not be enough today. Keep looking ahead and adjusting.
11. Sony ranked in the top 20 globally in patent filings in 2023, with over 3,500 patents granted in the U.S.
Why this matters
Sony may be best known for its PlayStation consoles or TVs, but its patent activity shows a deeper commitment to innovation across entertainment, imaging, and electronics.
Earning over 3,500 U.S. patents in a single year places Sony among the world’s top innovators, especially in consumer tech.
What Sony gets right
Sony invests in a wide mix of fields—gaming, music, film, semiconductors, and even sensors used in smartphones. This diversification is key to its consistent innovation output.
Its strength lies in bridging creativity and technology. Unlike many tech companies that focus solely on hardware or software, Sony blends emotional experiences with technical excellence.
Sony also collaborates across industries, like working with car manufacturers on in-vehicle entertainment systems, or with film studios to enhance camera technologies.
What you can learn
Blending technology with human experience creates products that people love. Whether you’re in software, services, or hardware, think about the emotion behind the product. What does it help people feel?
Don’t be afraid to explore adjacent industries. A gaming company can explore fitness. A logistics startup can create finance tools. Look at where your strengths can be reused.
Finally, invest in tools and platforms that support creativity within your team. Innovation doesn’t just come from engineers—it also comes from designers, artists, and storytellers.
12. Panasonic and Canon consistently rank in the global top 10 for patent grants, with Canon holding over 3,000 in 2023
Why this matters
While not always in the limelight, Panasonic and Canon have shown long-term consistency in innovation. They’ve adapted through multiple technological shifts and continue to file large volumes of patents each year.
Canon’s 3,000+ patents in 2023 show it’s still a force in imaging and precision technologies.
What they get right
Both companies focus on refining their core technologies. Canon specializes in imaging, printing, and optics. Panasonic leans into energy, appliances, and automotive tech. Rather than chasing every trend, they double down on what they know best.
They also lead in sustainability and energy-efficient products, combining innovation with environmental goals. This helps them stand out, especially in markets like Europe and Japan.
They invest in process innovation—making their factories smarter and leaner. That kind of behind-the-scenes innovation keeps their margins healthy and products competitive.
What you can learn
You don’t have to pivot constantly to stay relevant. You can build a strong future by deepening your mastery of what you already do well.
Also, consider how your innovation can align with larger goals like sustainability, accessibility, or inclusion. These areas are becoming more important to customers and regulators alike.
Improve your processes, not just your products. Look at where time or money is being wasted internally. Small process improvements can unlock major growth.
13. Qualcomm ranks in the top 5 for telecom and wireless technology patents globally, with over 1,900 U.S. grants in 2023
Why this matters
Qualcomm powers the devices most people use every day, even if they’ve never heard the name. From 5G to Wi-Fi to mobile processors, Qualcomm’s patents form the backbone of global connectivity.
Its 1,900+ patents in 2023 make it one of the most dominant forces in mobile technology.
What Qualcomm gets right
Qualcomm focuses deeply on connectivity. It doesn’t just follow trends—it leads them. The company invests in long-term standards like 5G and licenses its technologies to hundreds of manufacturers.
Its business model blends product sales (like chips) with IP licensing. That gives it both reach and recurring revenue.
Qualcomm also plays a central role in industry alliances and standards bodies. It doesn’t just follow the rules—it helps write them.
What you can learn
Owning the foundation of a system—like a protocol, method, or framework—gives you long-term power. It makes others depend on your innovation, which can turn into a new revenue stream.
Even if you don’t build physical tech, you can still create and license methods, algorithms, or processes. Think about what you do differently. Can it be protected or standardized?
Get involved in your industry’s future. Join working groups, alliances, or communities that shape where things are going. You’ll gain insight, credibility, and influence.
14. BASF, the German chemical giant, filed over 1,300 patents in 2023, ranking it as the top innovator in the chemical industry
Why this matters
Innovation isn’t just for tech companies. BASF, a leader in chemicals and materials, proves that even legacy industries can be hotbeds for creativity.
Filing more than 1,300 patents in one year reflects a strong pipeline of new products, formulations, and sustainability-focused materials.
What BASF gets right
BASF focuses on solving global problems. Whether it’s biodegradable plastics, battery materials, or carbon capture, its R&D is tied to pressing global needs.
It also partners with universities and startups to test new materials and bring them to market faster. Its open innovation platform helps speed up discovery.
BASF also ties innovation to environmental metrics. Many of its new inventions are designed to reduce emissions, waste, or water use. This helps it stand out to customers and governments alike.
What you can learn
You don’t need to be flashy to be innovative. If you’re solving hard problems in your field, you’re innovating—period.
Tie your innovation efforts to real-world problems. Whether it’s reducing costs, energy use, or time, solving these issues will give your solutions more staying power.
Also, look outside your walls. Collaborating with researchers or startups can accelerate your R&D timeline. You don’t have to invent everything yourself to be first to market.
15. Boeing and Airbus dominate aerospace innovation, with each filing more than 1,000 patents annually
Why this matters
Aerospace is one of the most complex industries in the world. It demands innovation in safety, materials, propulsion, and design—all at once. Boeing and Airbus leading in patents shows their heavy investment in staying competitive and safe.
With each company filing over 1,000 patents a year, the race to dominate the skies is very much alive.
What they get right
Both companies take a systems-thinking approach. Innovation doesn’t happen in one department. From cockpit design to carbon fiber wings, every part of the aircraft goes through constant improvement.
They also work closely with governments and defense organizations, balancing commercial and military contracts. This gives them funding for long-term R&D that can benefit both markets.
Boeing and Airbus invest in simulation, predictive maintenance, and sustainable fuels. Their innovation isn’t just technical—it’s strategic.
What you can learn
Innovation across systems takes planning. Map out all the touchpoints in your product or service. Where can small improvements add up to a major impact?
Also, balance short-term improvements with long-term bets. Don’t ignore emerging trends like sustainability, automation, or AI. Start small, test, and build from there.
And don’t forget your partners. Suppliers, regulators, and customers can all become sources of innovation. Create systems where feedback flows in regularly and decisions are made with the full picture.
16. Pfizer ranks in the top 10 of pharmaceutical innovation, with hundreds of biotech patents granted in 2023
Why this matters
Pfizer has become a household name in recent years, especially due to its rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines. But even outside the spotlight, it remains a powerhouse of pharmaceutical innovation.
Being in the top 10 for biotech patents in 2023 reflects Pfizer’s ability to keep creating and improving life-saving medications.
What Pfizer gets right
Pfizer’s strength lies in speed and partnerships. It doesn’t innovate in isolation. The mRNA vaccine breakthrough was the result of its alliance with BioNTech, showing how strategic collaboration can fast-track development.
Its pipeline of drugs goes beyond vaccines, touching oncology, rare diseases, and chronic conditions. This diversification allows Pfizer to spread risk and opportunity.
Pfizer also embraces digital transformation. It uses AI and predictive analytics to shorten research cycles, identify promising molecules, and improve trial outcomes.
What you can learn
Speed matters—but it’s hard to do alone. Consider strategic partnerships with others who have complementary strengths. If you have data, find someone with distribution. If you have demand, find someone with supply.
Use tech to work smarter. You don’t need AI labs—just start with analytics. Look at where you’re wasting time or missing patterns. Small software tools can often uncover big opportunities.
And if you’re in a regulated industry, don’t view compliance as a roadblock. Treat it as a guide for how to innovate safely and effectively.
17. Roche leads global pharmaceutical patenting with over 3,000 filings in 2023, especially in oncology and diagnostics
Why this matters
Roche is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics. Filing over 3,000 patents in a single year—and focusing heavily on cancer treatment and testing—shows how it invests in innovation that saves lives.
Roche’s dominance in oncology and diagnostics isn’t just about science. It’s about turning research into real-world treatments faster than the competition.
What Roche gets right
Roche invests in both therapeutic development and diagnostic tools. That dual approach allows it to treat diseases more effectively by detecting them earlier and targeting treatments more precisely.
It uses personalized medicine principles—analyzing genetic profiles to tailor solutions to individuals. This precision leads to better outcomes and less waste.
Roche also invests in digital diagnostics, including cloud platforms for doctors and labs. That shift helps doctors make quicker, more informed decisions.
What you can learn
Think about how diagnostics apply to your own business. Can you find problems earlier? Can you help customers predict and prevent issues?
Offer solutions that are not just reactive but proactive. Prevention can be more powerful than treatment—whether you’re in health, finance, or logistics.
Also, explore how you can personalize your offerings. Use customer data (ethically and transparently) to tailor services, messages, or features. The more relevant your solution, the more value you create.
18. Tencent and Alibaba lead China’s innovation rankings, with each filing over 2,000 international patents annually
Why this matters
Innovation is no longer limited to Silicon Valley. Chinese giants like Tencent and Alibaba are producing world-class patents every year, especially in AI, cloud computing, and fintech.
Their 2,000+ international patents each in 2023 prove they’re not just local champions—they’re global competitors.
What they get right
Tencent innovates across platforms—from social media (WeChat) to gaming (Honor of Kings) to cloud services. It builds ecosystems where users can spend their entire digital life.
Alibaba, meanwhile, leads in e-commerce and cloud infrastructure. It uses AI and big data to optimize supply chains, personalize shopping, and manage logistics at an incredible scale.
Both companies invest heavily in in-house R&D as well as startup acquisitions. They aren’t afraid to experiment at scale.
What you can learn
Don’t think innovation only happens in one country or region. Great ideas come from everywhere. Learn from global leaders, not just local ones.
Build ecosystems, not just products. Think about what happens before, during, and after your customer uses your service. Can you add value at each step?
And stay aggressive with experimentation. Test new tools, platforms, and business models. Create a space in your company where ideas are encouraged—even if they don’t always succeed.
19. Tesla filed over 300 new patents in 2023, mainly in battery tech, self-driving, and vehicle design
Why this matters
Tesla is one of the most watched companies in the world—and with good reason. With just 300 patents filed in 2023, it may not be the largest in quantity, but the quality and impact of its innovations are unmatched in the automotive industry.
Tesla focuses its innovation where it matters most: performance, sustainability, and autonomy.
What Tesla gets right
Tesla’s approach to innovation is bold and public. From over-the-air software updates to full self-driving features, it keeps pushing the boundaries of what a car can be.
Its battery innovations lead the industry in range and efficiency. The company also develops its own manufacturing systems, like the Gigapress, to scale production and reduce cost.
Tesla isn’t afraid to open up. In the past, it’s shared its patents to encourage EV adoption. That shows leadership and long-term thinking.
What you can learn
Innovation isn’t always about quantity. Sometimes, the most important breakthroughs come from focusing on a few high-impact problems.
Don’t hide your innovation. Talk about it. Market it. Use it as a differentiator. And if your innovation can help the industry grow as a whole, consider sharing some of it.
Finally, think about scaling your innovation. Can your idea be mass-produced, delivered globally, or automated? Innovation is only valuable if it can reach the people who need it.
20. General Electric holds more than 60,000 active patents globally, across aviation, health, and energy
Why this matters
General Electric (GE) has been around for over a century, and yet it still leads in innovation across multiple industries. Holding over 60,000 active patents is a clear sign that it continues to build and protect new ideas at a massive scale.
These patents support products and services in areas that touch almost every part of modern life.
What GE gets right
GE doesn’t innovate in silos. It applies ideas from one field to another—like using health imaging innovations to improve industrial sensors, or vice versa.
It also integrates hardware, software, and data. For example, GE’s Predix platform uses real-time data from machines to predict failures before they happen, saving companies millions.
GE invests in smart services—offering customers predictive maintenance, energy management, and analytics as add-ons. This turns products into platforms and builds long-term relationships.
What you can learn
Look for crossover opportunities. Can something you learned in one project be applied to another area? Borrow ideas across disciplines to create fresh solutions.
Think beyond selling just a product. Can you offer analytics, monitoring, or support? These services often bring higher margins and deeper customer loyalty.
And don’t underestimate your IP. Even older patents can be monetized through licensing or reapplication. Regularly audit what you own and explore new ways to use it.
21. Toyota ranks as the most innovative automaker, with over 2,000 patents granted annually in mobility tech
Why this matters
Toyota has built its reputation on reliability, but beneath that surface is one of the world’s most sophisticated innovation engines. With more than 2,000 patents granted each year, Toyota is not just following trends—it’s shaping the future of mobility.
From hybrid technology to autonomous driving, the company continues to push boundaries in ways that benefit both drivers and the planet.
What Toyota gets right
Toyota pioneered hybrid vehicles with the Prius, long before sustainability became a global priority. That move wasn’t just about being green—it was about seeing the future clearly and acting early.
Its innovation goes deep into mobility, not just vehicles. Toyota is developing technologies for smart cities, robotic assistants, and hydrogen-powered systems.
Importantly, Toyota balances innovation with practicality. It doesn’t rush half-baked ideas to market. It perfects them over years of iteration and testing.
What you can learn
Don’t innovate for hype—innovate for impact. Toyota’s biggest wins came from seeing future needs before others did and moving deliberately to meet them.
Think of your business not just as a product or service but as a system. Are there adjacent areas where your expertise could open doors? Could you expand into a new space like Toyota is doing with smart infrastructure?
And always think long term. Rapid innovation is exciting, but sustainable innovation wins over time. Set goals for five or ten years out, not just the next quarter.
22. LG Electronics ranks among the global top 10 in electronics innovation, with over 2,700 U.S. patents in 2023
Why this matters
LG has long been a leader in consumer electronics, and its commitment to innovation continues to grow. Ranking in the top 10 globally for electronics innovation in 2023 shows its broad influence in displays, appliances, batteries, and smart tech.
With more than 2,700 patents filed in just the U.S., LG proves that innovation can thrive across multiple categories, not just one.
What LG gets right
LG excels at turning complex tech into everyday experiences. Whether it’s OLED displays, energy-efficient washers, or AI-driven air conditioners, the company builds smarter homes, not just better gadgets.
It also focuses heavily on sustainability—like developing materials that are easier to recycle and machines that use less energy and water.
LG supports innovation at the platform level. For example, its ThinQ ecosystem links multiple devices, allowing users to control and automate their environments from a single interface.
What you can learn
Don’t get stuck in one category. If you understand your customer well, you can serve them in more ways than one. Think about the broader ecosystem where your product lives. Can you add value there too?
Also, use tech to solve real daily problems. The best innovations aren’t always complex—they’re just helpful. Make life easier, faster, or more comfortable, and you’ll win loyalty.
Finally, consider how you can lead in sustainability. Customers are starting to care not just about what they buy, but how it’s made and what happens after.
23. Siemens holds more than 60,000 active patents, maintaining a high innovation output across energy and automation
Why this matters
Siemens is one of Europe’s most innovative industrial giants. With over 60,000 active patents, the company remains a top player in areas like energy systems, factory automation, and smart infrastructure.
It’s not flashy—but it’s foundational. Siemens builds the systems that help cities, hospitals, and factories function more intelligently.
What Siemens gets right
Siemens integrates software, hardware, and data across industrial settings. Whether it’s a smart grid or an automated factory line, its products work together to reduce waste, improve safety, and boost efficiency.
The company also invests in digital twins—virtual simulations of real-world systems that help engineers test and improve performance without risk.
Its R&D structure is decentralized but aligned. Each division drives its own innovation but follows shared company-wide goals in digitalization and sustainability.
What you can learn
Innovation isn’t always visible to the end user—but that doesn’t make it less valuable. If you improve systems or enable others to perform better, that’s powerful.
Look at how your customers use your product in their own systems. Can you help them optimize how they use it? Can you provide data or insights to guide decisions?
Also, consider virtual testing. Whether it’s A/B testing for a website or simulations for a service, test before you launch to save time and avoid mistakes.
24. Baidu ranked 1st in China for AI patent filings in 2023, with over 2,500 AI-related patents
Why this matters
AI is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, and Baidu is leading the charge in China. Ranking 1st in AI patent filings with more than 2,500 patents in a single year shows how committed the company is to owning this space.
This focus on AI has turned Baidu from a search engine into a major AI and cloud computing force.
What Baidu gets right
Baidu’s strength is in foundational AI research. Its work spans voice recognition, autonomous driving, machine translation, and AI chips. The company builds its own AI infrastructure, including hardware and cloud platforms.
Baidu also applies AI across sectors—healthcare, education, manufacturing—often through government or enterprise partnerships. It’s not just building tech; it’s embedding it where it matters.
The company runs open research platforms and releases AI tools that others can build on, expanding its influence and developer ecosystem.
What you can learn
Don’t wait for AI to be perfect—start exploring now. Look at how AI can improve your workflows, customer experience, or decision-making.
You don’t need to build your own AI from scratch. Use existing platforms, APIs, or open-source tools to experiment. Identify repetitive tasks or data-heavy processes where AI can help.
Also, share your tools or frameworks with others. This not only builds goodwill but can make you a central player in your niche community.
25. IBM’s Watson team filed more than 1,000 AI-related patents in 2023, leading enterprise AI innovation
Why this matters
IBM Watson was one of the first major platforms to bring AI into business environments. In 2023, IBM’s AI division continued to push ahead, filing over 1,000 patents and leading in enterprise applications of machine learning.
While consumer-facing AI gets a lot of attention, Watson focuses on solving real business problems.
What IBM gets right
Watson delivers AI tools for sectors like healthcare, finance, and supply chain management. Its strength lies in making complex AI usable by non-technical teams through no-code interfaces and automation.
IBM also invests in ethical AI frameworks. It emphasizes explainability, data privacy, and fairness—crucial features in industries where decisions can have big consequences.
It collaborates closely with clients, helping them customize models to their specific use cases, which increases adoption and effectiveness.
What you can learn
AI isn’t just for tech companies. Any business that works with data can benefit from automation, forecasting, or pattern recognition.
Start with one simple use case—like customer service chatbots, smart search, or automated reports. Prove the value, then expand.
Also, take ethics seriously. If you’re using AI to make decisions, make sure you can explain why it works and ensure it doesn’t introduce bias or risk. Trust is key to long-term success with AI.
26. NVIDIA’s innovation in GPU and AI tech earned it over 1,200 patent grants in 2023, a record for the company
Why this matters
NVIDIA has moved from being just a graphics card manufacturer to becoming one of the most influential players in artificial intelligence. Its 1,200+ patent grants in 2023 are a reflection of its growing dominance in AI infrastructure, data science, and high-performance computing.
It’s not just powering games anymore—it’s powering the future of computing.
What NVIDIA gets right
NVIDIA created a platform that became the backbone of modern AI. GPUs are essential for training large-scale AI models, and NVIDIA’s hardware is now in every major AI lab and cloud provider.
But it didn’t stop at hardware. NVIDIA also developed CUDA, a programming platform that helped AI researchers build faster, smarter algorithms. This gave developers a reason to stay within the NVIDIA ecosystem.
Its innovation also extends into healthcare (AI-driven imaging), autonomous vehicles (through Drive PX), and even robotics. This shows an ability to adapt core strengths to multiple industries.
What you can learn
Don’t limit your product to one niche. Look at how your existing assets—whether it’s data, tech, or expertise—can serve new markets.
Create platforms, not just tools. A tool is useful once. A platform becomes a foundation others rely on. The more people build around you, the more valuable you become.
And finally, support your community. Invest in education, developer support, and documentation. Help others succeed with your product, and you’ll grow together.
27. Dell Technologies ranked in the top 20 for enterprise hardware innovation, with 900+ patents filed in 2023
Why this matters
Dell is known for its laptops and servers, but under the surface, it’s a quiet leader in enterprise innovation. With over 900 patents filed in 2023, Dell is proving that hardware is far from dead—it’s evolving.
Its innovation focuses on cloud infrastructure, edge computing, and secure data environments, helping businesses manage complex IT needs.
What Dell gets right
Dell builds for scale. Whether it’s a single startup or a global bank, Dell’s solutions are designed to grow with the business. Its hardware integrates with software, analytics, and security platforms to create seamless enterprise environments.
The company is also investing heavily in edge computing—bringing processing closer to where data is generated. This is crucial for industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, where real-time response matters.
Dell supports innovation through customer feedback loops. It works closely with clients to co-develop systems, especially in high-stakes industries.
What you can learn
B2B innovation is just as powerful as consumer-facing innovation. If your product makes other businesses better, faster, or safer, you’re providing real value.
Involve your customers in the innovation process. Ask what they need, test early versions with them, and build based on real-world use. This not only improves your product but deepens customer loyalty.
Also, look at how computing is shifting. Can you bring your product or service closer to the edge—where customers actually need it? Sometimes, faster beats smarter.
28. Philips consistently ranks in the top 5 in healthcare tech innovation, with more than 1,800 global patents in 2023
Why this matters
Philips has transformed itself from a consumer electronics company into a healthcare technology leader. With over 1,800 global patents in 2023, it now plays a critical role in hospitals, diagnostics labs, and patient care.
Its innovations are helping clinicians make better decisions, faster.
What Philips gets right
Philips invests in areas like connected imaging, patient monitoring, and personalized treatment. Its focus is not just on machines—but on improving health outcomes.
It integrates hardware with software and cloud platforms, giving doctors a complete view of the patient across time and departments. That data-rich approach supports better diagnoses and long-term planning.
Philips also leads in remote care, building devices and systems for home monitoring. This trend exploded during the pandemic and continues to grow.
What you can learn
Solving deep industry problems builds long-term value. If you want to innovate in healthcare, finance, or education—start by listening to the professionals. Understand their pain points before trying to sell a solution.
Create systems that integrate across the workflow. Make it easier for users to track, monitor, and act without switching tools or losing context.
And don’t ignore the trend toward decentralization. More work is being done at home, remotely, or on mobile. If you can enable people to get results without needing a central office or location, you’re future-proofing your offering.
29. Salesforce filed over 500 AI and cloud-related patents in 2023, focusing on enterprise software innovation
Why this matters
Salesforce isn’t just a CRM—it’s become a full-scale innovation engine for the enterprise software market. With over 500 AI and cloud-related patents in 2023, it’s transforming how businesses manage relationships, data, and decisions.
Its innovation shapes how companies sell, support, and scale.
What Salesforce gets right
Salesforce was one of the first to see that software should live in the cloud and evolve constantly. It now uses AI (like Einstein) to help companies forecast sales, understand customer behavior, and automate processes.
It builds low-code and no-code platforms so businesses can customize workflows without hiring an engineering team. That opens the door for small companies to act like big ones.
Salesforce also ties innovation to impact. Its platform promotes ethical use of AI, accessible design, and climate-conscious data centers.
What you can learn
Make your product smarter. Use data you already have to add value for your customers—like personalized insights, alerts, or predictions.
Make it easier to customize. Don’t assume every customer wants the same setup. If you allow flexibility without complexity, you’ll stand out.
Tie your tech to real outcomes. If you can show how your product helps someone save time, money, or effort, they’ll keep coming back.
30. Johnson & Johnson leads in med-tech innovation, with over 2,400 patents granted in 2023 across various health domains
Why this matters
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is more than baby products—it’s a global leader in medical technology, pharmaceuticals, and consumer health. With over 2,400 patents granted in 2023, it continues to lead innovation in devices, therapies, and diagnostics.
Its strength is combining science with scale to bring solutions to billions.
What J&J gets right
J&J operates across three divisions: medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and consumer health. This gives it a 360-degree view of the patient journey—from prevention to treatment and recovery.
It develops minimally invasive tools, robotic surgery systems, and smart implants. These innovations reduce risk, shorten recovery time, and improve precision.
The company also runs venture arms and startup incubators, helping early-stage health tech companies grow. This ensures it stays close to the cutting edge.
What you can learn
Innovation across domains is powerful. Look for ways to connect different areas of your business to create unique solutions. Maybe your tech team can help your marketing team automate something. Maybe your support team has insights your product team can use.
Build relationships with startups or experts in your field. Don’t just watch them—partner with them. You’ll learn faster and stay ahead.
And invest in tools that improve outcomes, not just features. People remember results, not specs. Solve a real problem, and they’ll keep coming back.
Conclusion:
These 30 companies show us that innovation comes in many forms—products, processes, platforms, and partnerships. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a tech startup, a manufacturing giant, or a healthcare provider. What matters is your commitment to doing things better, every day.
