Transformation of the digital economy of the region: dynamics of development, sectoral effects and institutional support measures

Relevance. The relevance of the study is due to the strategic importance and practical significance of the transition of the regions of the Russian Federation to a digital economy model in the context of import substitution and external sanctions restrictions.
The purpose of the study is to assess the development of the digital economy in the Kursk region and its impact on the region's key industries.
Objectives: to analyze the existing theoretical approaches to defining the concept of "digital economy", to examine the development of the digital economy in the Kursk Region from 1990 to the present, to determine the extent of the impact of digital technologies on the key sectors of the region's economy, to identify the challenges of digitalization in the Kursk Region, and to propose a set of measures to address these challenges.
Methodology. The study used theoretical, statistical (analysis of official Kurskstat data for the period 2019-2023), and comparative analysis. A descriptive method was used to provide a detailed description of the stages of digitalization and assess the impact of technologies on the region's economic sectors.
Results. Periodization analysis from the 1990s to the present c., revealed a new stage of the digital economy of the Kursk region from 2022, characterized by import substitution and strengthening IT education. Statistical analysis confirmed a recovery in innovation activity after the recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Characteristic features of digitalization of the Kursk region are: the significant role of the agricultural and industrial complex; sustained growth in digital infrastructure; dependence on federal initiatives; social orientation. Key problems have been identified that negatively affect the process of digitalization of the economy in the Kursk region: "brain drain"; intra-regional "digital inequality"; use of obsolete equipment; high cost of introducing digital technologies and low digital literacy of the population.
Conclusions. The Kursk Region has developed a sustainable model of digital transformation of the economy. Despite the existing challenges, the region is experiencing positive dynamics in terms of innovation activity and the purposeful introduction of digital technologies in key sectors of the economy. The development of digitalization in the region is systematic, supported by national projects, and has a positive impact on all key sectors, ultimately contributing to the growth of the gross regional product. The paper summarizes practical measures aimed at overcoming digital inequality, stimulating innovation, and strengthening human resources.

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