European research study on new technologies and social innovations

A study on social innovation in Baden-Wuerttemberg carried out by the Steinbeis-Europa-Zentrum in cooperation with the Centre for Social Investment (CSI) of the University of Heidelberg examines social innovations and new technologies as well as the success factors and support of the latter.

The study’s basis were more than 100 social innovations, 37 of which demonstrated high economic and technological relevance. On 17 innovations, more detailed investigations were carried out with the help of interviews and on-site visits. Subsequently, five areas were identified that represent an important prerequisite for technological and entrepreneurial success: new technologies, communication, cooperation, business models / market and financing opportunities.

The results of the study published in 2018 show that positive synergies can be developed through the combination of social purpose and economic success. Thus, social innovations also provide an economic potential for the state of Baden-Württemberg that should not be underestimated. The study includes recommendations and detailed case studies and was funded by the Baden-Wuerttemberg Ministry of Economics, Labor and Tourism.

Based on the study results, the Steinbeis-Europa-Zentrum and the Center for Social Investment at the University of Heidelberg brought together relevant stakeholders from different sectors in the follow-up project "Social Innovation Challenge Baden-Wuerttemberg" to jointly develop technological solutions for social challenges.

Download the study here