International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

The paper comments on Bulgaria’s penultimate position in the Global Innovation Index 2024. This position provoked the authors’ scientific interest in analysing the innovation environment in the country. The results of the analysis are considered according to individual indicators of the innovation environment, with the emphasis on the difficulties and problems facing the development of innovations. Innovations are a strategic factor for the development and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. On the basis of our own research with managers of industrial enterprises, conclusions about the opportunities and challenges for the development of innovations are formulated.