A university driving technological sovereignty

Beyond its academic excellence, UGA is now establishing itself as the true leader of an innovation ecosystem that is unique in France. By orchestrating a site strategy that brings together its various components (such as Grenoble INP – UGA, which contributes significantly to the patent filing process) and national research organisations (CEA, CNRS, INRAE, Inria, Inserm), the university acts as a driving force for technology transfer. This leadership role enables it to transform scientific excellence into concrete industrial assets, thereby ensuring the competitiveness and economic sovereignty of the region.

Key figures from the 2025 rankings

With 60 patents filed in 2025, UGA is:

• 1st French university in the overall ranking.
• The 4th most innovative public organisation in France, all categories combined.
• Ranked 29th nationally in the Top 50 applicants (including large industrial groups).

The top 5 French universities in the INPI 2025 rankings

• Grenoble Alpes University (29th)
• University of Bordeaux (35th)
• Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University (37th)
• Paris-Saclay University (41st)
• Bordeaux Polytechnic Institute (new entry)

The UGA, which includes its constituent institution Grenoble INP - UGA, has once again distinguished itself by ranking alongside France's most innovative companies in the national rankings. This excellence in innovation is based on a solid and historic culture of innovation. In this regard, it is worth noting that 3,348 patents were filed by UGA over a 20-year period, from 2000 to 2020, according to a study conducted by the European Patent Office, placing it in first place among European universities in terms of patent filings.

Ranking methodology

The national ranking published by the INPI only records patent applications filed with the INPI. These are therefore national applications: the majority are first filings, but some are foreign priority applications. European (EP) and international (PCT) applications seeking protection on French territory are not included in this national ranking. The ranking of the main patent applicants at the INPI is based on the number of patent applications filed by legal entities between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025. Applications for utility certificates and provisional applications are also included. The aim of this ranking is to reflect as accurately as possible the activity of companies in terms of patent filings with the INPI.