The Global Innovation Index (GII) is published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and ranks economies around the world on their innovation.
The latest 2026 index ranks New Zealand 24th out of 139 economies. New Zealand performed well across conditions that support innovation, including skills, infrastructure, access to finance and business capability. But we achieved weaker results when it comes to turning those strengths into business growth.
This presents an opportunity for New Zealand businesses. By making better use of new technologies, knowledge and expertise, businesses can improve productivity, create value and grow.
Take a practical, results-based approach to innovation
Businesses do not need to invent something completely new to grow. Growth can also come from finding better ways to use technology, improve processes and build capability.
Whether it's artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing technologies or digital tools, innovation only delivers benefits when it's used effectively across the business.
This can raise practical questions for businesses:
- Where should we invest?
- What skills and capability do we need?
- How do we know if an opportunity is worth pursuing?
A good starting point is to connect any innovation activity to a clear business goal. Examples include reducing costs, increasing revenue, entering new markets or reducing risk.
Strong leadership and management also play an important role in helping businesses turn opportunities into results.
Intellectual property supports innovation and growth
Many businesses create valuable intellectual property (IP) without realising it.
Brands, designs, inventions, business processes and specialist knowledge can all be valuable business assets. Understanding how to identify and protect these assets can help businesses grow and stay competitive.
Intellectual property can help businesses:
- attract investment
- support licensing opportunities
- strengthen partnerships
- expand into export markets
- build and protect market position.
For many small and medium-sized businesses, like exporters, creative businesses or agencies, intellectual property can be one of their most valuable assets.
Turn ideas into real solutions
New Zealand's future success depends on more than great ideas. It depends on turning those ideas into products, services, jobs and export opportunities.
To achieve this, businesses must position themselves to grow and compete in a changing global economy. This includes adopting new technologies, investing in capability, and making the most of their intellectual property.
Do you want to innovate, grow or improve productivity?
Businesses don't need to tackle innovation and growth challenges on their own.
Support is available to help you turn your ideas into action. This includes capability development, technology adoption, intellectual property, research and development, and exporting.