Some of Jena’s big names are world famous; companies such as ZEISS, Jenoptik and SCHOTT began their success stories here. The city is home to international corporations as well as many small and medium-sized businesses. Amongst others, Jena’s innovative strength is demonstrated by the roughly 250 patents being registered annually (per 100,000 inhabitants, German average 59 p.a.).
With more than 68,000 employees for 110,000 residents, a high gross value added and an export ratio of over 65 percent Jena is one of the most important hightech centres in Thuringia and Central Germany.
In Jena, over 4,500 scientists are researching at two universities and 11 internationally renowned institutes.