Listen to Uma Chowdhry, DuPont senior vp and chief science and technology officer: “Innovation is a critical lever for DuPont, whether it is at the peak of economic growth or in the midst of a recession. Our commitment to innovation did not waver, even through the worst recession in decades, and it is paying off. Our R&D engine continues to deliver to the top and bottom line at DuPont. New products underpin our marketing success and volumes for our new differentiated products were strong through the downturn, helping us to achieve outstanding results.”

Results like 39% of its revenue from products it introduced in 2009.

DuPont photo

The company commercialized more than 1,400 products and applications in ’09, 60% more than in ’08 and an overall record.

DuPont scientists and engineers applied for 2,086 patents in the U.S., 8% more than in ’08 and the highest number in the company’s history—and note that it was founded in 1802. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted 592 patents to DuPont, which is 20% more than in ’08.

All of which is to say that looking at the numbers, innovation counts.