Global Innovation Index 2013: Despite Weaknesses Switzerland Stays on Top

The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2013 looked at 142 economies around the world, using 84 indicators gauging both innovation capabilities and measurable results. The Top Ten ranking 2013:

1. Switzerland (Number 1 in 2012)
2. Sweden (2)
3. United Kingdom (5)
4. Netherlands (6)
5. United States of America (10)
6. Finland (4)
7. Hong Kong (China) (8)
8. Singapore (3)
9. Denmark (7)

 10. Ireland (9)

Switzerland and Sweden’s performance reflects the fact that both countries are leaders in all components (pillars) of the GII, consistently ranking in the top 25. The United Kingdom has a well-balanced innovation performance (ranking 4th in both input and output), in spite of a relatively low level of growth in labor productivity. The United States continues to benefit from its strong education base (especially in terms of top-rank universities), and has seen strong increases in software spending and employment in knowledge-intensive services. The US was last in the GII top 5 in 2009, when it was number one

The Index includes several indicators relating to start-ups. In terms of “new business density” Switzerland performs quite well. The country ranks number 4. But the indicators are showing also clear weaknesses. It’s too complicated to start a business. The score of Switzerland in regard to this indicator is 86 out of 100. In 60 countries it’s easier to start a business including most of the Nordic countries, UK and France.

Even worse is the situation with regard to Venture Capital. The score of Switzerland is 65 out of 100. Israel is on top with a score of 100 followed by countries like Canada (96), Denmark (89) and UK (78).

The GII 2013 was released jointly by WIPO, Cornell University, INSEAD and its Global Innovation Index 2013 edition Knowledge Partners, Booz & Company, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), du and Huawei. The report can be downloaded on a special website.