The Canadian Patent Deficit

According to a 2015 study by the Conference Board of Canada (CBC), Canada ranks 9th out of 16 peer nations in innovation.  The ranked order includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, U.S., Switzerland, Netherlands, Austria, Norway, Canada, Germany, Japan, Australia, Belgium, U.K, France and Ireland.

While Canada was given an overall grade of 'C' for innovation, the study indicate marked regional differences within the country. For example, the provinces of Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia earned a 'B'; Alberta earned a 'C', while the remaining six provinces earned a 'D' or less. In fact, when compared with the 16 peer nations, Ontario ranked 5th (behind the US, ahead of Australia), Quebec ranked 8th and B.C. ranked 10th in innovation.