OECD Reviews of Innovation Policy: Austria 2018

Over the past two decades, Austria has become one of the most R&ampD intensive economies among OECD countries and in the world, dedicating 3.1% of its GDP on R&ampD in 2016, the second highest figure in the European Union. To fully harness this R&ampD capacity, Austrian innovation policy needs to put a stronger emphasis on efficiency in transforming R&ampD inputs into impacts. To achieve higher impacts, Austria also needs to steer its research and innovation system towards leadership excellence in global markets. This requires enhanced international attractiveness for top-level researchers and talent, and a conducive environment for highly innovative enterprises. Austria could also benefit from strengthening R&ampD and innovation to support key transitions, such as digitalisation and Industry 4.0, and to tackle key societal challenges. The STI policy mix and governance arrangements should be adapted accordingly.