Ethyl 9H-carbazole-2-carboxylate finds application in organic synthesis, particularly as a building block for the development of more complex carbazole derivatives. These derivatives are often utilized in the production of organic semiconductors, which are essential components in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and photovoltaic cells. The compound's ability to form stable, conjugated systems makes it valuable in the design of materials with desirable electronic properties.

Additionally, it is used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, where carbazole derivatives exhibit a range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Its role as an intermediate in the preparation of these bioactive molecules highlights its importance in medicinal chemistry.

In material science, the compound contributes to the development of advanced polymers and dyes, where its structural framework enhances the thermal stability and optical properties of the resulting materials. This versatility underscores its significance across various industrial and research applications.