Roadmapping and subnational involvement in mission-oriented policies

As mission-oriented approaches are increasingly being put into practice and implemented internationally as well as in Germany, the question arises as to how the impact of these approaches can be enhanced. A key point - one that has received little attention to date - is the involvement of the subnational level in mission implementation. In the German context, this aspect has gained importance in light of the new federal government's commitment to develop a new "high-tech agenda for Germany with the involvement of the federal states." (own translation; CDU et al. 2025, p. 77). This study examines this issue based on an analysis of a total of 23 good practice examples in international mission-oriented initiatives (including eight in-depth case studies of selected initiatives). In addition, the insights gained from the analysis were discussed in an international workshop with mission practitioners and academics. The analysis focuses on the following questions: What are suitable forms for involving subnational actors? How can missions be meaningfully formulated and designed in a multi-level system? What are suitable governance arrangements for implementing such missions? What contribution can roadmapping or similar processes make to coordination and consultation between different actors? Based on the analysis results, a number of recommendations for increased subnational participation are derived with regard to the German context.