The Ostalbkreis wants to continue its regional development concept NIO (Sustainable Innovations for the Ostalbkreis) and transfer it even more strongly into a regional innovation strategy. To this end, the implementation and achievement of the objectives of the previous concept will first be evaluated. Building on this, future needs for action will be identified using a broad participation procedure. For this purpose, surveys or a circle development dialogue, in which representatives from industry, research, education, politics and administration jointly develop contents for a regional innovation strategy, serve as examples. Together with the accompanying scientific research and expertise, a roadmap for the technological development of the district is to be formulated.