The United Nations' World Intellectual Property Organization released its annual Global Innovation Index on July 24, including a ranking of the most innovative nations.
Topping the rankings for the ninth year in a row was Switzerland, with the U.S. in third place. The rankings are based on 80 criteria, including research and development investments, patent and trademark applications, mobile app creation and high-tech exports. Key findings in the WIPO's report include a continued global drive toward innovation despite economic setbacks, and a shift in focus across the board from quantity to quality of innovation.
Here are the top 10 most innovative nations, according to the WIPO:
1. Switzerland
2. Sweden
3. U.S.
4. Netherlands
5. U.K.
6. Finland
7. Denmark
8. Singapore
9. Germany
10. Israel