Software and Patents
Are computer programs patentable? The answer is a clear “yes and no.” Here is why – and how best to protect your software
Ideas Start Here
The Austrian Patent Office is the trusted partner for anyone with an idea. We provide expert guidance, searches, and support – from the initial concept to securing and protecting your intellectual property for years to come.
You know how to start?
Search and apply with just a few clicks:
Young Inventors Prize: Apply or Nominate Now!
Attention young inventors: Submissions or nominations for the European Patent Office’s Young Inventors Prize are open until September 30, 2026
What Good Design Is Really Worth
A recent study shows how design shapes our buying decisions – and why protecting designs pays off for businesses
AI and Patents
Can AI applications be patented – and can an AI actually invent anything? Both questions are currently keeping patent offices around the world busy. The answers are clearer than many people think
Austria Stays in Innovation Elite: 8th Place in EU Ranking
The European Innovation Scoreboard is out – and Austria holds its strong position in the group of “Strong Innovators”
Austria and China renew cooperation in the field of intellectual property
A strong signal for international cooperation: The Austrian Patent Office (APO) and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their bilateral partnership.
Making Patents Visible: The Austrian Patent Office Now Assigns DOIs
New service for universities and research institutions makes patent documents citable in academic work
Our services
From the initial idea to a registered intellectual property right – we offer the right service for every step of the way.
IP Buddy
Ready to launch your next big idea? Click here for a free advice on patents, trademarks, and designs – exclusively for high school and university students
Patent.Voucher
Especially for SMEs and start-ups: Get up to €10,000 in funding on the way to filing a patent application – with the Patent.Voucher from FFG and the Austrian Patent Office
Buddy for Her
As a woman, would you like to talk to another woman about your idea? Click here for a free woman-to-woman consultation on the topic of intellectual property
discover.IP
Does your company have intellectual property? Here you'll get personalized advice on the appropriate IP strategy – free for SMEs
Upcoming events – online and in-person
Innovative Austria: data from the 2025 Annual Report
Read the 2025 Annual Report now- 2272 invention applications
- 5022 trademark applications
- 294 design applications
- 1850 services
IP Academy: knowledge that protects
Recognizing and protecting intellectual property (IP): Our experts can help! For SMEs, school and university students, and everyone who wants to make the most of their ideas.