Germany, Land of Innovation: A Regional Perspective
Innovation is here – but not everywhere. Our evaluation reveals which federal states and cities shape the German Innovation Awards – and where urgent action is needed. The gaps are significant. At the same time, they offer enormous potential.
One in four award-winning projects at the German Innovation Awards comes from North Rhine-Westphalia, followed by Baden-Württemberg (21%) and Bavaria (19%). On city level, Munich leads – ahead of Berlin, Hanover, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf.
Southern and western Germany invest significantly more in research and development. In contrast, structurally weaker regions such as Saxony-Anhalt or Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania lag far behind. Baden-Württemberg, for example, invests over 5.6% of its GDP in R&D – Saxony-Anhalt only 1.6%.
This disparity shows: Regions that build infrastructure, foster networks and invest in targeted support become magnets for innovation. At the same time, we need new strategies to strengthen innovation in less prominent areas too.
Top 5 federal states by share of German Innovation Awards:
- North Rhine-Westphalia – 25%
- Baden-Württemberg – 21 %
- Bavaria – 19%
- Hesse – 11 %
- Lower Saxony – 6.5%
Innovation can emerge anywhere – when the conditions are right. A closer look at the regions shows: it’s worth investing with focus and foresight.
Shaping the future in your region?
Make your innovation visible – apply now for the German Innovation Awards 2026.
