The whole world is constantly changing. We are going through a period marked by challenges that will directly influence humanity. The phenomenon of globalization has come with benefits but also with negative side effects, creating uncertainties and inequalities in social, economic, political and environmental. The great crisis of 2008-2009 had a major negative impact on the economies of the world, and it is still difficult to recover the losses caused. At present, there is an increased emphasis on social and environmental issues, aiming as much as possible towards a sustainable society. With a decade left, the world is working to meet the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. But the challenge is huge, given the current difficult geopolitical and geoeconomic context. The requirements for sustainable development need excellence in innovation. This paper aims to present Romania’s current position on the European map of innovation, as well as perspectives that can influence the future evolution of the national economy in the context of sustainable development.