Impact indicators of RIS monitoring 2021–2023: Developments, trends and innovation potential

The monitoring of the Thuringian Regional Innovation Strategy (RIS) encompasses the observation of R&D activities and innovation-supporting measures for the implementation of the strategy, as well as the monitoring of the long-term effects of these activities and thus the achievement of the strategy's objectives. The current factsheet "Impact Indicators 2021-2023" highlights both field-specific effects and the overarching strategic impacts for the years 2021-2023 and places these developments in a European context.

Stable structures, clear specializations – Thuringia's economic profile remains recognizable

Despite economic uncertainties, the structure of Thuringia's specialized sectors remains robust. In all sectors, the number of employees remained stable or even increased between 2021 and 2023. The strength of the region is particularly evident in areas where Thuringia has traditionally been well-positioned: industrial production, the healthcare sector, and sustainable energy. 

The manufacturing process is once again outstanding optical and photographic instruments and equipment, which achieve the highest values ​​in terms of both employees and sales, demonstrates how strongly Thuringia is positioned in individual high-tech segments. 

Revenue trends in many sectors are also on the rise, even though 2022 was an interim year with declines. The export ratio in the manufacturing sector remains stable, confirming the international competitiveness of Thuringian companies. 

Thuringia remains a “strong innovator” – however, R&D intensity is declining

In a European comparison, Thuringia continues to assert itself as a "Strong Innovator." Thuringia scores above the EU average on many indicators of the Regional Innovation Scoreboard. The high rate of innovative SMEs entering into collaborations is particularly noteworthy: at 187.4% of the EU average (2025), Thuringia is well above the European average in this respect. 

At the same time, the economy's R&D intensity fell from 1.35% in 2021 to 1.12% in 2023, and the number of R&D personnel also decreased during the same period. The main reason is the decline in R&D spending in the business sector. Startup activity in the high-tech sector follows a similar trend. 

Conclusion

RIS monitoring reveals an overall stable economic structure with clear areas of specialization. The challenge lies in consistently developing these further – through investments in research, by strengthening technology-oriented startups, and by promoting cooperation between industry, academia, and public stakeholders.

Further information

The detailed results are published in the factsheet: