Sunflower breeding programs in the Republic of Croatia have over 30 year tradition and they have been realized only at the Agricultural Institute Osijek. At present, the program is realized within the framework of the scientific research project “Breeding of hybrid sunflower for high grain yield and quality”, that is partially sponsored by Ministry of Science, Education and Sport of the Republic of Croatia. Main goal is creation of superior hybrids with high grain yield (above 5 t/ha), oil content (above 50%) and high and stable oil yield. Special attention is given to creation of lines with emphasized tolerance to dominant pathogens and creation of hybrids with short vegetation (110 to 120 days). Until now, results of work are 12 approved hybrids (Osječanin, Fakir, Olio, Orion, Podravac, Slavonac, Sunce, Gordan, Miro, Šokac, Favorit and Apolon), which have considerably contributed to sunflower production increase in Croatia. Also, two sunflower hybrids of the Agricultural Institute Osijek (Fakir and Olio) have been approved in the Republic of Slovakia. Future work in breeding is directed to intensifying phytopathological investigation in laboratory and the use of a biotechnological method, which will contribute to higher efficiency of the breeding program.