Directions for the development of innovative activity in regions with a single-industry structure of the economy

Abstract

The development of the regional economy in the innovative aspect is a necessary factor in increasing its competitiveness and technological sovereignty, which is of particular relevance in an unstable geopolitical situation. The transition of the economy of each constituent entity of the Russian Federation to an innovative development path is a priority task, which is reflected in the framework of legal acts regulating the conditions for socio-economic development both at the regional and federal levels (strategies, programs, etc.). One of the stages of its solution is to take into account the economic specifics, which largely determines the conditions for the implementation of innovative activities in a particular territory. The study is aimed at developing directions for the development of innovative activity in regions with a single-industry structure of the economy. Its relevance is justified by the fact that the single-industry structure, which is typical for many Russian regions, especially the northern ones, acts as a factor that «slows down» the development of innovative activity. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to solve the problems associated with identifying approaches to the essence of the single-industry structure of the economy, as well as disclosing the features of its impact on innovation activity in the region. The research methodology is based on the use of system analysis, documentary and sociological methods. As part of the discussion, the results of in-depth interviews with experts on innovative development in the region are presented. As a result, directions for the development of innovative activity were developed, among which is particularly noteworthy the diversification in monopolized sectors of the economy, where innovation plays a special role, through the development of small and medium-sized innovative businesses, as well as the development of qualitatively new sectors of the regional economy.