Economic assessment of the innovation potential of the Central Federal District regions: regional inequality.

Relevance. The innovative potential of the region is an important factor for attracting both domestic and foreign investments. A clear assessment allows investors to make informed investment decisions. Studying the potential of the region helps to determine which territories can become a locomotive for overcoming external constraints. The purpose is assessment of innovation potential and identification of the regions of the Central Federal District with the most significant potential for innovation. Objectives: to analyze the current state of innovation activity in the regions of the Central Federal District; to identify regions with high and low potential for innovation; to study the relationship between the level of innovation potential and socio-economic indicators of the regions to identify factors contributing to or hindering the development of innovation; to propose measures for regions with low innovation potential. Methodology. A wide range of scientific methods and research approaches have been used, including general scientific methods of cognition, economic-geographical and economic-statistical approaches, as well as methods such as analysis, comparison, synthesis of scientific research and articles, and data visualization. Results. There is significant inequality in the socio-economic development of the regions of the Central Federal District. Regions with high socio-economic potential have more opportunities for innovation development. However, even in these regions, there is a weak integration of science and production, which limits the development of advanced technologies. Conclusions. The study led to the statement that the most likely development of innovation activities in the Belgorod, Voronezh, Tula, Lipetsk and Kaluga regions is due to high GDP, significant investments and income of the population. These regions have a strong economic base and prerequisites for the introduction of new technologies. The remaining regions of the Siberian Federal District need to increase investments, raise household incomes, and develop scientific infrastructure to strengthen their innovation potential.

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