Research & Development
An Centre of Innovation and Excellence
Research and Development is a sector of key significance for the Breton economy. The region ranks sixth in French investment spendings, with some €1.1 billion allocated annually by the region, and an additional €500 000 dedicated to this sector by private companies. Brittany comprises 14 000 staff employed in R&D – a figure that has risen 44% over recent years, much faster than the national level of 27%. The two main research fields in the region are IT and communications (ITC) and biology, with over 20% of all research staff working in telecommunications and another 12% in the agri-food industry.
First-Class Support
The region has equipped itself with major assets to ensure its international visibility. It features, among other things, 4 labelled competitiveness clusters, a research and education centre (known as PRES) numbering 70 000 students and 2 700 researchers, 7 science and technology parks, a European Centre of Enterprises and Innovation and 9 technological innovation centres. It has also set up specialized development services and collaboration networks.
Succesful Results
A number of companies, both French (France Telecom, Thalès, etc.) and foreign (Canon, Philips Semiconductors, Renesas Design, among others) have located their research centres in Brittany. This region has seen the highest number of R&D projects launched between 2001 and 2005.
The figure : Brittany accounts for more than 10% of the 400 researcher groups ranked A or A+.
