The Innovation.bg 2025 report presents an up-to-date assessment of the state of the innovation system in Bulgaria, emphasizing the need for technological renewal, digital transformation, and strategic adaptation to the changing global context.
Despite some positive trends, such as widespread access to high-speed internet, growth in the ICT sector, and the use of digital services, Bulgaria remains among the “emerging innovators” and, for another year, has failed to move into the more advanced group of “moderate innovators” in the EU. The country ranks 26th in the European Innovation Scoreboard.
Main barriers:
- Inadequate human resources in science and innovation – only 25,400 people are engaged in R&D (31% growth for 2014–2023, compared to an EU average of 39%);
- Low investment in R&D – 0.8% of GDP, well below national and European targets;
- Decline in patent activity – a 20.1% decrease in patents issued by the Patent Office, especially in the academic sector.
However, the report also highlights opportunities for a leap forward through strategic repositioning and stronger links between science, business, and education, setting out the following strategic priorities for 2030:
- Increasing investment in R&D to 1.5% of GDP;
- Radical reform of STEM education with a focus on digitalisation and entrepreneurial skills;
- Compatibility with the European Strategic Technology Platform (STEP) and economic security strategies;
- Active participation in initiatives such as MIT REAP and smart specialisation.
The report was developed by the Applied Research and Communications Fund as part of the national Innovation.bg initiative, recognized by the European Commission as a good national practice for promoting innovation.
Read the full report here (.PDF file in Bulgarian).
