How can small and medium-sized enterprises enhance their innovative capacity? How can the middle class gain competitive advantages over large companies in the context of globalization? This book provides a systematic and process-oriented description of the fundamentals and building blocks of successful innovation management. At the same time, it offers structured assistance for the implementation or optimization of a sustainable innovation process. Concrete practical examples and checklists provide ideas for implementation in one's own company and demonstrate how successful innovation management can be achieved while considering individual circumstances. A must-read for decision-makers, strategists, and leaders in small and medium-sized enterprises.