May 2026: 20.10% (A+ grade)

Wyoming inventionINDEX May 2026: 20.10% (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).

Historical Wyoming inventionINDEX Scores

The inventionINDEX score for Wyoming for the past 12 months is shown in the table below.

The recent trajectory of the Wyoming inventionINDEX highlights a robust period of innovation and development, with the May 2026 score arriving at a solid 20.10 percent and securing an A+ rating. Over the past sixty months, the index has maintained an impressive average score of 14.55 percent, demonstrating consistent growth punctuated by a strong prevalence of top-tier grades. This sustained performance indicates that the region has effectively stabilized its innovation outputs, avoiding the extreme volatility that can sometimes plague emerging tech ecosystems. Comparing the current year to the broader historical context, it is clear that the state has established a resilient foundation for long-term technological and entrepreneurial success.

Looking back at the historical data provides valuable perspective on how far the index has come, particularly when observing the most dramatic peaks and valleys. The absolute zenith occurred in March 2025, where the score spiked to an unprecedented 51.89 percent, setting a high benchmark for regional ingenuity. Conversely, the significant dip in July 2022, which resulted in a score of -8.52 percent and the only failing grade of the period, served as a stark reminder of economic or structural vulnerabilities. Since that isolated downturn, the index has experienced a remarkable recovery, consistently outperforming earlier years and reinforcing a reliable upward trend.

Achieving and maintaining a higher grade on the inventionINDEX carries numerous positive outcomes that directly benefit the local economy. An A+ rating acts as a powerful signal to venture capitalists and institutional investors that the region is fertile ground for new enterprises and forward-thinking research. High scores also aid in talent retention, as skilled professionals naturally gravitate toward thriving, dynamic ecosystems where their expertise is valued and supported. Furthermore, these elevated marks often correlate with increased funding for academic institutions and incubator programs, creating a self-sustaining cycle of innovation and economic diversification.

On the other hand, experiencing a lower score or a downward shift in the index carries distinct negative implications that require swift remediation. A regression to C or F ratings, as seen briefly in 2021, 2022, and 2024, can quickly erode investor confidence and stall ongoing projects. Such declines may suggest a stagnation in research outputs, a tightening of capital, or a potential brain drain where top talent relocates to more competitive markets. Recognizing these warning signs early is critical, as prolonged periods of low performance can compromise the long-term viability of the state’s innovation infrastructure and hinder broader economic growth.

Discussion:

In May, the Wyoming inventionINDEX scored a positive sentiment which was lower than the previous year’s average and underperformed 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 Wyoming office provides R&D tax credit consulting and advisory services to Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie, Gillette and Rock Springs

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.