OKLAHOMA INVENTIONINDEX | SEPTEMBER 2025

September 2025: 2.67% (A grade)

Oklahoma inventionINDEX September 2025: 2.67% (A grade)

The inventionINDEX measures innovation output by comparing GDP growth with patent production growth. 

Anything over C grade is positive sentiment; anything under C is negative outlook/sentiment. Using that sentiment, it is possible to observe trends over time, and also compare states/countries. In doing so, we can predict which states have the best chance to recover economically from the pandemic (or any other economic incident that may occur).

Oklahoma inventionINDEX Scores – Last 12 months

The Oklahoma inventionINDEX for September 2025 stands at 2.67%, earning an A grade. This score indicates a positive sentiment regarding innovation output in the state. Comparing this to the previous 12 months, where the average was lower, September’s performance suggests a notable improvement. The inventionINDEX, which measures innovation by comparing GDP growth with patent production growth, considers any grade above a C as a positive indicator, signifying a healthy economic outlook and potential for recovery or sustained growth.

A higher inventionINDEX score, such as the A grade achieved in September 2025, reflects robust innovation within Oklahoma. This positive trend can lead to several beneficial outcomes for the state’s economy. Increased patent production and corresponding GDP growth often correlate with job creation, attracting new businesses, and fostering a dynamic economic environment. Such a strong performance suggests that Oklahoma is effectively nurturing its intellectual capital and translating innovative ideas into tangible economic benefits, positioning it favorably for future prosperity.

Conversely, a lower inventionINDEX score, particularly those falling below a C grade, signals potential challenges in innovation and economic growth. For instance, June 2025 saw a score of -2.33% and an F grade, indicating a period of negative sentiment. Such declines can imply a slowdown in research and development, reduced patent activity, and a potential stagnation or contraction in economic output. These lower scores may be influenced by various factors, including economic downturns, reduced investment in innovation, or a less favorable environment for new ideas to flourish, which could hinder long-term economic resilience.

Observing trends over time, the historical data reveals fluctuations, with periods of strong performance interspersed with lower scores. While September 2025 shows a positive trajectory, understanding these historical patterns is crucial for strategic planning. Sustaining high inventionINDEX scores requires continuous investment in innovation, supportive policies for businesses and researchers, and an environment that encourages the development and commercialization of new technologies. Monitoring these scores allows for a proactive approach to address potential weaknesses and capitalize on strengths, ultimately contributing to Oklahoma’s economic stability and advancement.

Discussion:

In September, the Oklahoma inventionINDEX scored a positive sentiment which was higher than the previous year’s average and outperformed the downward trend for the year. This is in contrast to the prior 12 months, which experienced a considerable upward trend. 

As the economy continues to stabilize in the post-pandemic era, it remains uncertain whether any backlog of applications still exists or if the department has returned to normal processing timelines. The inventionINDEX could also be affected by lingering consequences from the pandemic, such as company closures, reduced workforces, and limited R&D capabilities, which may still be impacting current operations.

Learn More:

Are you thinking of patenting any of your bright ideas? Did you know your research work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? To find out more, please check out our free online eligibility test.

Swanson Reed’s Oklahoma office provides R&D tax credit consulting and advisory services to Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Lawton, Edmond, Moore, Midwest City, Enid, and Stillwater.

Feel free to book a quick teleconference with one of R&D tax specialists if you would like to learn more about R&D tax credit opportunities.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is the largest Specialist R&D tax credit advisory firm in the United States. With offices nationwide, we are one of the only firms globally to exclusively provide R&D tax credit consulting services to our clients. We have been exclusively providing R&D tax credit claim preparation and audit compliance solutions for over 30 years. 

Swanson Reed hosts daily free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs.  For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/free-webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.