The production of advanced technology goods has driven the region's economy for more than a century. Since the middle of 19th century Wrocław was transformed into a dynamic industrial centre for diverse industries. Modern Linke-Hofmann Werke AG locomotives, Heckmann steam tractors, Ruffer steam machines became products known and appreciated all around the world. After the Second World War a new era in the economic history of the city began. Wrocław-based companies were on the cutting edge in the development of electronics and the production of digital machines. The city was a Polish leader in the mechanical and electrical industries and was also a key centre for white goods production. At the end of the 1980s 60% of people employed in the Wrocław region worked in the mechanical and electrical industries.

Higher Education

Wroclaw is a leading academic centre in Poland alongside Warsaw and Cracow, and is home to many of Poland's top research and higher education institutions. Wrocław students represent 7% of the overall number of students in Poland and 86% of students in Lower Silesia. More than 130,000 students are enrolled here in 22 higher education institutions (public - 10, nonpublic - 12). Last year 23,000 people graduated from  Wrocław higher education institutions.