Abstract:  The breakthrough technological innovation ability of China’s 30 provinces from 2008 to 2017 is measured. The research shows that the breakthrough technological innovation ability is low as a whole, with an overall upward trend. The gap between regions is obvious, and the average value of most provinces is lower than the national average level. During the investigation period, the technological development ability in each construction dimension shows downward trend while the Niche market development ability and the external correlation strengthening ability show upward trend. The breakthrough technological innovation ability in eastern, central and western regions hasn’t shown the same regional distribution pattern as economic development, that is, the ability in comprehension and in each construction dimension in the eastern region are far stronger than those in the central and western regions, and central and western regions have their own advantages and areas to be strengthened. The conclusion is helpful to understanding the essence of regional breakthrough technological innovation ability and provides reference for the implementation of high-quality development strategies of innovation economy.

Key words:  regional innovation, breakthrough technological innovation ability, technological development ability, Niche market expansion ability, external correlation strengthening ability