arXiv · 2508.00829
Open Science, Open Innovation? The Role of Open Access in Patenting Activity
Abstract
Scientific knowledge is a key driver of technological innovation, shaping industrial development and policy decisions worldwide. Understanding how patents incorporate scientific research is essential for assessing the role of academic discoveries in technological progress. Non-Patent References (NPRs) provide a useful indicator of this relationship by revealing the extent to which patents draw upon scientific literature. Here, we show that reliance on scientific research in patents varies significantly across regions. Oceania and Europe display stronger engagement with scientific knowledge, while the Americas exhibit lower reliance. Moreover, NPRs are more likely to be open access than the average scientific publication, a trend that intensifies when Sci-Hub availability is considered. These results highlight the transformative impact of Open Science on global innovation dynamics. By facilitating broader access to research, Open Science strengthens the link between academia and industry, underscoring the need for policies that promote equitable and science-based innovation, particularly in developing regions.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Abdelghani Maddi, Ahmad Yaman Abdin, Francesco Fdp de Pretis. 2025-05-21. Open Science, Open Innovation? The Role of Open Access in Patenting Activity. https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.00829
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.