Programme 2019

February 13

08:30–09:30 Broadcast Networking Our connections are among our most important resources, and are essential for development. The key objective for partner organizations is to help young entrepreneurs meet the right people and make promising contacts. The event programme offers a u...: Our connections are among our most important resources, and are essential for development. The key objective for partner organizations is to help young entrepreneurs meet the right people and make promising contacts. The event programme offers a unique blend of managed networking and education. A number of well-known entrepreneurs will take part in the networking session.

10:00–18:00 Mentors’ Lounge for Entrepreneurs and Specialists The problems faced by young people include seeking out and attracting investment, wrong choices with respect to goals and strategies, the absence of a clear plan and a loss of focus, poor resource management, a lack of understanding of their clien...: The problems faced by young people include seeking out and attracting investment, wrong choices with respect to goals and strategies, the absence of a clear plan and a loss of focus, poor resource management, a lack of understanding of their clients’ needs, difficulties with scaling up their projects, weak use of technology, the absence of a global vision, ineffective marketing and PR, limited access to capital, the failure to make the necessary contacts, and many other issues and mistakes that prevent them from developing their businesses and achieving the results they want. Books, articles, courses, and educational programmes form a system of knowledge, but do not give young entrepreneurs the opportunity to see themselves and their business through the eyes of others or to determine exactly what action to take in concrete situations. Assistance with diagnosing problems can only be provided by more experienced mentors, and by the environment in which the young person finds themselves.

10:00–11:30 Social Enterprise Project Lab The objective of the Social Enterprise Project Lab is to come up with proposals for the development of social enterprise projects based on presentations of existing projects by the winners of the Russian national Best Social Project of the Year co...: The objective of the Social Enterprise Project Lab is to come up with proposals for the development of social enterprise projects based on presentations of existing projects by the winners of the Russian national Best Social Project of the Year competition. The key feature of this foresight session will be group work using technology for immersion in situational working models. The main results produced by the project groups will take the form of models for the subsequent development and promotion of existing social enterprise projects. By taking part in the Social Enterprise Project Lab, participants in the foresight session will gain knowledge about social enterprise, together with the opportunity to talk to the creators of real social enterprise projects and experience in project and team work.
Session will continue 14:30 - 16:00

10:00–11:30 Broadcast Mind the Gap – The Generation Gap in the Labour Market as an Obstacle to the Development of the Russian Economy The values of Generation Y and their impressions of the labour market and of their place within it today could become one of the key factors hindering the development of the Russian economy. The differences between this generation and the precedin...: The values of Generation Y and their impressions of the labour market and of their place within it today could become one of the key factors hindering the development of the Russian economy. The differences between this generation and the preceding one are quite clear – particularly with respect to their attitudes to work and career strategies. Research indicates that young people are not prepared to take risks and do not consider private entrepreneurship to be a possible direction for them, and this could potentially lead to a reduction in the share of private entrepreneurship within the Russian economy. Neither do young people demonstrate a desire to work as employees, however. This is to a large extent connected with the characteristic traits of this generation, which include a desire to occupy executive positions without possessing the corresponding skills, an overinflated assessment of their own abilities, unrealistic expectations, and an inability to concentrate on the same project or task for a long period of time. At the same time, the unwillingness of current employers to take these generational features into account is also a problem. Moreover, as businesses develop and grow, their requirements diversify and expand, and it becomes increasingly difficult for them to employ members of Generation Y. As such, the demands and expectations of candidates and employers with respect to each other are only growing. How can this problem be solved? How can the gap between candidates and employers be reduced and common ground identified?
Key issues:
• Problems with young people’s adaptation to the labour market
• The specifics of Generation Y’s approach to career motivation and selecting a career development path
• Employers’ expectations and impressions of Generation Y
• Successful practices for collaboration between employers and Generation Y
• Corporate training opportunities

10:00–11:30 Broadcast Volunteering as an Investment in the Country’s Future 2018 was declared the Year of the Volunteer in Russia. One key outcome of this was the creation of the infrastructure required to further develop the movement and increase the number of citizens engaging in volunteering to 14 million. A federal pr...: 2018 was declared the Year of the Volunteer in Russia. One key outcome of this was the creation of the infrastructure required to further develop the movement and increase the number of citizens engaging in volunteering to 14 million. A federal programme entitled ‘Social Activism’ was drawn up: an action plan covering the period through to 2024 which tackles volunteer mobility and the promotion of volunteering, regional subsidies, training courses, and much more.
Key issues:
• The ‘Social Activism’ federal project as the Year of the Volunteer’s legacy
• The contribution of volunteers in key areas of national development
• The socio-economic impact of volunteering

10:00–11:30 Broadcast Best Practices in Modern Sustainable Cities Development In an era of rapid urbanization and paradigm shifts in global development, the international community is seeking best practices for achieving sustainable urban development in both developed and developing countries. In order to make urban agglome...: In an era of rapid urbanization and paradigm shifts in global development, the international community is seeking best practices for achieving sustainable urban development in both developed and developing countries. In order to make urban agglomerations sustainable, it is important to study and widely apply best practices (both Russian and global) and lessons learned from specific projects aimed at improving the contemporary urban environment. Another, no less important, issue for the socioeconomic development of the cities of the future relates to young people’s choice of profession and cultivation of the skills they need to advance successfully and follow their personal growth trajectories. What projects might help us to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (particularly Goal 11 on sustainable cities)? Could they be implemented in Russia’s major cities? Which professions will be in demand for developing the cities of the future? A roadmap will be drawn up for implementing the projects discussed at the session, and an international community, Friends of Cities, will be launched to share best practices with the ultimate aim of facilitating future collaboration.

10:00–11:30 Broadcast The Cybersports Industry as a Development Path for the IT Industry The size of the computer games market in the Russian Federation has reached significant heights in recent years: Russia is now home to more than 65 million gamers who spend around USD 1.7 billion every year, making the Russian computer games marke...: The size of the computer games market in the Russian Federation has reached significant heights in recent years: Russia is now home to more than 65 million gamers who spend around USD 1.7 billion every year, making the Russian computer games market the eleventh largest in the world. It is clear that the computer games sector, and indeed all sectors involved in the process, including developers as well as producers of computer equipment and peripheral computer devices, are of considerable importance to the Russian economy. This discussion panel will hear from speakers representing executive and legislative bodies, the industry community, and producers and developers of computer games and associated devices, with the objective of developing a road map to offer support to the domestic computer games industry.

10:00–14:00 Design Session: Synergy between Support Institutes and Young Business Leaders – Myth or New Opportunities? The national goals for developing small and medium entrepreneurship set out by the President of the Russian Federation and included in the SMEs and Support for Individual Entrepreneurial Initiative project pose a challenge for executive authoritie...: The national goals for developing small and medium entrepreneurship set out by the President of the Russian Federation and included in the SMEs and Support for Individual Entrepreneurial Initiative project pose a challenge for executive authorities, development institutes, infrastructure support organizations, and public entrepreneurial associations. Achieving good outcomes over the long term will require synergy, with stakeholders joining forces and agreeing plans of action at the federal and regional levels. Throughout history, breakthrough ideas and results have most commonly been produced by young, aspiring leaders with a fresh outlook who are prepared to think outside the box, set and achieve ambitious goals, and join forces to reach shared outcomes. Session participants will include young entrepreneurs and opinion leaders, economic development ministers and the heads of organizations providing infrastructure support to entrepreneurs, and representatives from development institutes and public entrepreneurial associations. Together, they will come up with a strategy for pooling their efforts and resources in order to meet the targets set out in the national project. During this session on design thinking technology, participants will work together to come up with a strategy for pooling the efforts and resources of government and business to achieve the national project targets in the regions.

12:00–13:30 Broadcast The Digital World Is Already Here! Are You Ready? Mobility, robotization, big data, artificial intelligence – these are no longer trends, but things that we are already living with. Humans are gradually making the move from the natural environment into an artificial one – the digital world. The u...: Mobility, robotization, big data, artificial intelligence – these are no longer trends, but things that we are already living with. Humans are gradually making the move from the natural environment into an artificial one – the digital world. The use of digital technologies has become a precondition for competitiveness and development in the service sector. Innovations in the digital sphere are today becoming an irreplaceable tool, not only for improving efficiency within target industries, but also in everyday life. Today, it is not only corporations that are opting to go down the digital route, small and medium-sized businesses are, too. It is believed that, in our time, it is the digital world that is influencing and stimulating progress in the development of enterprise, the global economy, and social life. Is this the case?
Key issues:
• The potential of financial, political, and educational systems in a digital world
• The opportunities and risks of a global digital reorientation as we see them
• Are we ready for digital world? Our strengths and weaknesses.

14:00–16:30 Business Game: A Model For Attracting Investment Regional Competitiveness 4.0: Approaches to Developing and Attracting Investment Today, attracting investment is among the key preconditions for achieving sustainable economic growth. Investments are making it possible to accelerate scientific and technological progress, improve quality and competitiveness in production, and d...: Today, attracting investment is among the key preconditions for achieving sustainable economic growth. Investments are making it possible to accelerate scientific and technological progress, improve quality and competitiveness in production, and develop the associated environment and infrastructure. At the same time, the investment attractiveness of a country to a large extent comprises a range of institutional factors, the majority of which are put in place and supported at a regional level. Those responsible for creating an attractive environment are regional government authorities, where the quality of staff is often one of the key conditions determining the effectiveness of work with investors. The young people’s model for attracting investment is a business game for students, young professionals, and entrepreneurs who are interested in investment policy, public–private partnerships, and the socio-economic development of the state. The model aims to engage young people in learning from the experience of Russia’s regions about attracting investment, creating competitive conditions for business, and developing and implementing socio-economic development strategies.
Aims of the model:
• To learn from the experience of Russia’s regions about attracting investment and developing innovative potential at a time of technological transition
• To analyse the strengths and weaknesses of regions, and the opportunities and threats presented by the fourth industrial revolution
• To form a comprehensive view among young people of current socio-economic development challenges
• To formulate proposals from young people about addressing the problems presently facing Russia’s regions, and to put forward a model for development that can tackle the challenges of the fourth industrial revolution

14:30–16:00 Broadcast Developing a Culture of Russian Entrepreneurship Objectives to increase the number of small and medium-sized businesses and make starting a business a more popular option have recently been set. In approaching these tasks, however, it is extremely important not to neglect the issue of the qualit...: Objectives to increase the number of small and medium-sized businesses and make starting a business a more popular option have recently been set. In approaching these tasks, however, it is extremely important not to neglect the issue of the quality of the entrepreneurial environment, and to give thought to the moral reference points that the entrepreneurial community will use to operate, and to what ethical and spiritual principles will be at the core of interactions between enterprise and society on one hand, and enterprise and government on the other. Do we have any traditions that we can use to guide us?
Key issues:
• What are the consequences of not knowing about the history of entrepreneurship in Russia?
• Could Pavel Tretyakov, Nikolay Alekseyev, the Ryabushinsky family, and the Khludov family provide reference points and challenges for modern Russian entrepreneurs?
• How can the names of prominent Russian entrepreneurs be made part of Russia’s national heritage once again?

14:30–16:00 Broadcast Attracting Investment into the Development of the Digital Economy in Russia – Successful Experiences of Early Investors The two major trends in the 21st-century economy are globalization and digitalization. The digitalization trend is only growing stronger, making it a promising area for investment. Amid the startup boom, business representatives are searching for ...: The two major trends in the 21st-century economy are globalization and digitalization. The digitalization trend is only growing stronger, making it a promising area for investment. Amid the startup boom, business representatives are searching for the most effective solutions to help them attract venture capital into Russia’s developing market. In response, our country is flinging its doors wide open to foreign entrepreneurs and investors. What path will the digitalization of the economy take as it develops? What prospects are already open to investors? What does the future hold for the development of blockchain technology? How can those seeking them attract foreign capital and technology to their business project?
Key issues:
• Prospects and opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs as the state economic digitalization programme is rolled out
• Blockchain technology as a tool for improving trust between parties in the future economy
• Presentation of the Russian national Blockchallenge Russia competition
• Developing IT infrastructure projects: successful case studies.

14:30–16:00 Broadcast A Practical Track for IT Entrepreneurship Highly uncertain situations are a common feature of modern business. Established approaches to starting a business cannot guarantee results in an era of constant change. This is a truth encountered especially often by entrepreneurs implementing un...: Highly uncertain situations are a common feature of modern business. Established approaches to starting a business cannot guarantee results in an era of constant change. This is a truth encountered especially often by entrepreneurs implementing unusual, innovative ideas. Is it possible to reduce the risk of failure when embarking a new business project? This is a question long faced by IT startups, which operate in a rapidly changing, highly competitive market. Solutions have taken the form of new approaches to starting businesses and the rapid appraisal of business ideas, which are being successfully taught to ‘digital’ entrepreneurs by the Internet Initiatives Development Fund. This practical track will give participants the opportunity to try out one of the approaches practised in IT startups: customer development. This approach makes it possible to test the extent of demand for your business idea within a short period of time, and without the need for additional investment.

16:30–18:00 Broadcast Developing Young Enterprise in the Context of the National SMEs and Support for Individual Entrepreneurial Initiative Project The future of Russia and its overall development are dependent on the younger generation. Special attention is being paid to young enterprise as one of the main drivers in developing the economy of tomorrow. Key issues: • Federal and reg...: The future of Russia and its overall development are dependent on the younger generation. Special attention is being paid to young enterprise as one of the main drivers in developing the economy of tomorrow.
Key issues:
• Federal and regional support measures for young enterprise
• Fostering entrepreneurial thinking among different age groups
• Creating communities as a key tool for the development of young enterprise
• Experienced mentors as the key to success
• Creating an investment culture within society
• Entering international markets and broadening the horizons of young entrepreneurs

February 14

08:30–10:00 Evolution of High-Profile Investment Project Finance: In Search of Balance In partnership with Gazprombank. By personal invitation only Medium-term national economy development plans are unprecedented due to their scale. Hundreds of projects will be implemented in accordance with those plans, and their financing would depend upon the ability to strike a balance between the interes...: Medium-term national economy development plans are unprecedented due to their scale. Hundreds of projects will be implemented in accordance with those plans, and their financing would depend upon the ability to strike a balance between the interests of investors, lenders and state institutions. What are the ways to balance interests of all stakeholders? How could due quality of investment projects preparation be ensured? Could mega-projects slow down fast-paced developers’ business? Do the banks have the required expertise and ability to lower their requirements to investors and projects?

08:30–10:00 The City as a Focal Point for National Projects By personal invitation only Collaboration – specifically partnerships between regional and municipal governments, business and public activists – is a key trend in urban development. This business breakfast will bring together professionals from all of these sectors, as well...: Collaboration – specifically partnerships between regional and municipal governments, business and public activists – is a key trend in urban development. This business breakfast will bring together professionals from all of these sectors, as well as urban development experts, around one table. Speakers representing each sector will highlight areas where the interests and expertise of all groups involved in urban development intersect. They will also answer a number of key questions: what are the most pressing issues when it comes to implementing national projects? How can PPP mechanisms be applied effectively in order to achieve national objectives? In what way can they have a practical effect on citizens, raise their quality of life, and improve the situation in cities and regions? What is the city of the future? How can international practice be applied to make cities more comfortable to live in? How can national projects help bring living standards in Russian cities closer to world-class levels, and consequently, make them as attractive as possible to residents? Where should the funds needed to achieve these aims come from? How can investment help improve the quality and effectiveness of national projects?

08:30–09:45 Broadcast National Champions Pitch Session Russia is currently home to a group of a few hundred competitive, fast-growing, highly innovative private companies with a strong entrepreneurial base. Many of them are ready to expand their businesses and become leaders on the national or even gl...: Russia is currently home to a group of a few hundred competitive, fast-growing, highly innovative private companies with a strong entrepreneurial base. Many of them are ready to expand their businesses and become leaders on the national or even global market. Since 2016, a number of these companies have applied and been accepted onto the Ministry of Economic Development’s priority project, ‘Supporting Leading Private High-Tech Companies’ (also known as ‘National Champions’). As things stand, 62 companies have been accepted onto the scheme. Participating companies receive comprehensive support from the Ministry in their dealings with government authorities, development institutions, and companies in which the state is a shareholder. How can we help companies communicate with banks and investment firms and obtain loans and investment? What achievements and future projects can the companies taking part in the National Champions scheme share with us?

Award Ceremony for New Contestants in the National Champions Project

08:30–09:45 Broadcast Developing Socially-Oriented Education in Russia’s Universities A great deal of attention is currently being paid to the creation of a social infrastructure, support for social non-profit organizations and projects with social impact, and the role the voluntary sector, volunteering, and corporate social respon...: A great deal of attention is currently being paid to the creation of a social infrastructure, support for social non-profit organizations and projects with social impact, and the role the voluntary sector, volunteering, and corporate social responsibility might play in tackling social issues. Against this background, issues relating to the development of human capital, whether that means fostering a culture of social engagement or providing professional training for specialists with the competencies and skills required to drive social progress, are somewhat neglected. Tackling this important challenge is particularly relevant to the post-Soviet education model, which has focused attention on students’ individual achievements and competitiveness, leading to a gap between the personal and community aspects of young people’s development. How can Russian universities overcome this gap in order to systematically develop socially-oriented education in Russia? What kind of educational programmes and practices are needed to shape a new socially-responsible generation, from those working in social services, non-profit employees, social entrepreneurs, and social communications professionals – those who have chosen the field as their profession – to businesspeople, government employees, and representatives from all parts of our society? What role can be played by the state, non-profits, and businesses in all this?

08:30–09:45 Broadcast The Role of the Regions in Popularizing Entrepreneurship One of the areas of concern of the Small and Medium-sized Business and Supporting Individual Entrepreneurial Initiatives National Project is popularizing entrepreneurship. In today’s Russia, people tend not to take a great deal of interest in entr...: One of the areas of concern of the Small and Medium-sized Business and Supporting Individual Entrepreneurial Initiatives National Project is popularizing entrepreneurship. In today’s Russia, people tend not to take a great deal of interest in entrepreneurship. According to data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, only 5% of respondents expressed a desire to start a business. However, there is considerable potential for growth in the SME sector by encouraging entrepreneurial activity and promoting entrepreneurship. Russia’s regions have a major role to play in tackling these challenges. Which tools are most effective? Are there universal recipes for success? How can mistakes be avoided? Which tools for popularizing entrepreneurship would businesses suggest?

08:30–09:45 Broadcast Exporting Agricultural Output: The Regional Agenda Russia’s ambitions to export products on the global food market directly depend on the effectiveness of regional agricultural policies and agendas. Different regional agendas approach the challenges around modernizing agriculture and reassessing t...: Russia’s ambitions to export products on the global food market directly depend on the effectiveness of regional agricultural policies and agendas. Different regional agendas approach the challenges around modernizing agriculture and reassessing the direction it should take quite differently. Various regions are seeing export potential in their own regional products and drumming up foreign consumer interest in them. How might we effectively create a portfolio of regional products for export? What development strategies for export are regions choosing? What international experience might we take into account when formulating effective regional export strategies?

08:30–09:45 Broadcast The Competitiveness of the Regions through the Prism of Increasing Labour Productivity: How to Engage, Manage, and Motivate Increasing labour productivity is one of the key tasks set out in the Russian President’s May Decree and in the Labour Productivity and Supporting Employment National Project. In the majority of Russia’s non-commodity sectors, productivity could b...: Increasing labour productivity is one of the key tasks set out in the Russian President’s May Decree and in the Labour Productivity and Supporting Employment National Project. In the majority of Russia’s non-commodity sectors, productivity could be increased by 50–100%; there is also huge potential to expand exports, as well as significant opportunities in the domestic market. What systemic measures is the government putting in place to help companies increase labour productivity? What needs to improve in terms of the way the authorities and business cooperate in order to achieve the targets set out in the national project? How can the experience gained in raising productivity be scaled up in practice? What practical advantages can participants enjoy in terms of improved productivity and success in new markets?

08:30–09:45 Broadcast Public Financial Literacy as the Basis for Financial Stability The Ministry of Finance has carried out a study of financial literacy in Russia’s regions, and compiled a regional ranking on the basis of this data. From 2019, this ranking, which evaluates the public’s financial literacy knowledge, skills, and a...: The Ministry of Finance has carried out a study of financial literacy in Russia’s regions, and compiled a regional ranking on the basis of this data. From 2019, this ranking, which evaluates the public’s financial literacy knowledge, skills, and attitudes, will be updated yearly. The results of the study will be revealed at the Forum in Sochi. During this session, Russian and international experts in financial literacy training will answer questions about the most effective ways to spread the word about financial literacy, and discuss key issues and problems related to protecting the rights of consumers of financial services.

Award Ceremony for the Winners of Russia’s First Regional Financial Literacy Index, with First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation – Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation Anton Siluanov

08:30–09:45 Broadcast Ecology as a Measure of Quality of Life The Environment National Project was approved in late 2018, and is the biggest, most systemic project to preserve Russia’s unique natural environment in the country’s post-Soviet history. Total funding for the project is more than RUB 4 trillion, ...: The Environment National Project was approved in late 2018, and is the biggest, most systemic project to preserve Russia’s unique natural environment in the country’s post-Soviet history. Total funding for the project is more than RUB 4 trillion, of which over RUB 3.5 trillion will come from private sources.
Eleven federal projects are to be implemented by 2024, including: effective waste management, the clean-up of hazardous accumulated environmental damage, and a drastic reduction in air pollution in major industrial centres. There are also plans to improve the quality of drinking water and clean up bodies of water, including the Volga River, Lake Baikal, and Lake Teletskoye; to preserve biodiversity and create new specially protected natural areas; and to increase the area covered by restored forests; etc. How will project implementation impact the lives of ordinary Russians? How realistic is it that all of the objectives set out in the national project will be achieved? These questions will be discussed by representatives from government and business, as well as experts involved in the national project.

08:30–09:45 Developing the Power Grid in the Russian Regions in an Era of Global Technological Change Digital transformation of power systems will make it possible to accelerate socioeconomic growth in the regions, increase energy security by creating new possibilities for infrastructure, and significantly improve people’s quality of life thanks t...: Digital transformation of power systems will make it possible to accelerate socioeconomic growth in the regions, increase energy security by creating new possibilities for infrastructure, and significantly improve people’s quality of life thanks to new standards of service. How will digitalization affect regional economies? How can we use digitalization to improve life for people living in the regions and provide the right environment for the development of small, medium-sized, and large businesses? What tools and mechanisms for long-term tariff regulation should be considered in order to tackle the challenges of digital transformation in Russia’s regions?

09:30–11:00 Broadcast Digital Transformation and Quality of Life from a Regional Perspective Sberbank Panel Session All countries are committed to digital transformation. Business models are changing. People’s behaviour is changing. The pace of transformation is staggering. New technologies disrupt the way we live and produce, manage, and make decisions in virt...: All countries are committed to digital transformation. Business models are changing. People’s behaviour is changing. The pace of transformation is staggering. New technologies disrupt the way we live and produce, manage, and make decisions in virtually all areas. Digital transformation manifests itself in many global trends, such as big data, AI, IoT, etc. Data is the new oil. Leading digital nations come top in the quality of life rating. The Russian Digital Economy programme is shaping federal and regional agendas. Some Russian regions have already started to implement best digitization practices. Does digital transformation affect quality of life? What needs to be done to become a global leader in digital transformation and quality of life?

09:45–11:45 Broadcast National Projects and the Regions: Key Questions at the Beginning of the Road Work on the national projects is entering a practical phase. Project (programme) passports have been developed, and key targets have been identified, along with those responsible for meeting them at the federal level. Key performance indicators ha...: Work on the national projects is entering a practical phase. Project (programme) passports have been developed, and key targets have been identified, along with those responsible for meeting them at the federal level. Key performance indicators have been established for the leaders of Russia’s regions, and agreements will soon be signed between the centre and the regions on implementing the national projects. In order to continue this work, the Government of the Russian Federation and the country’s regions will need to answer some fundamental questions. How should work on the projects be organized in the regions? Do the regions have the powers they need to achieve the goals that have been set? What management tools can be employed? What is the financial status of the regions involved in implementing national projects? Do Russia’s regions have sufficient revenue to achieve the goals that have been set? How will this achievement be monitored?

10:00–11:30 Broadcast Bringing Care Closer: New Possibilities for Rural Russia In partnership with Russian Post and Post Bank Providing access to basic healthcare, educational, financial, and public services is an extremely important issue today for rural areas, where every fourth resident of Russia resides. Villages, particularly remote and hard-to-reach areas, often la...: Providing access to basic healthcare, educational, financial, and public services is an extremely important issue today for rural areas, where every fourth resident of Russia resides. Villages, particularly remote and hard-to-reach areas, often lack the necessary social, telecommunication, and other infrastructure. Oftentimes, the only socially significant facilities in these populated areas are a post office and sometimes a shop. Due to the lack of prospects for business development and generating profit, major retailers do not come to remote and/or sparsely populated areas. There are usually no pharmacies or health clinics, and banks are leaving due to the low demand for services and low profit margins. As a result, the local population has difficulties performing basic financial operations – opening an account, withdrawing cash, paying for utility services, obtaining and repaying loans both to individuals and for small business development – as well as getting access to social and medical services. This all leads to people leaving their homes in search of work and a better life in big cities. It is clear that the problem needs to be resolved ‘here and now’, by combining the efforts of the state, business, and the expert community. Is there a solution to the problem of infrastructural isolation in areas which are hard to reach and far away from regional centres? How can we support the infrastructure of these towns and settlements at the level enjoyed by regional centres and large cities? How can we avoid infringing the rights of local populations and meet their basic needs for food and medicine, good-quality telecommunications, and modern financial services? Is business currently ready to support the state in ensuring access to social services in rural areas, and, most importantly, are there practical examples of this readiness? What could major market players from various sectors do to improve this situation, both separately and working in partnership with each other?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Social Entrepreneurship as a Factor Contributing to the Country’s Wellbeing In the current economic environment characterized by harsh competition, ever more companies and entrepreneurs are expressing their readiness not only to turn a profit, but also to solve important social problems. Ensuring equal access for all citi...: In the current economic environment characterized by harsh competition, ever more companies and entrepreneurs are expressing their readiness not only to turn a profit, but also to solve important social problems. Ensuring equal access for all citizens to high-quality social services, and attracting entrepreneurs into this area, could provide a new source of growth and improve quality of life. In today’s Russia, it is vitally necessary to create a social ecology which prioritizes not profit but better living conditions, through harnessing all the resources of the state, business, and society. What must be in place in order to create an integrated system for socioeconomic development in the regions and the country as a whole? How are existing measures for supporting social entrepreneurship working? Do they meet today’s standards and requirements? What efforts must the regions make to create an environment for developing socioeconomic potential?

Awards Ceremony for Winners of the Best Social Project of the Year Competition for Social Entrepreneurship Projects

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Preserve and Enrich: Implementing the National Culture Project The aims of the national project for culture are to increase public interest in Russia’s national cultural heritage and to create an environment in which citizens can develop their creative potential. This, in turn, will require the building of a ...: The aims of the national project for culture are to increase public interest in Russia’s national cultural heritage and to create an environment in which citizens can develop their creative potential. This, in turn, will require the building of a diversified infrastructure throughout Russia which meets the needs of contemporary society; the introduction of new technologies and organizational forms for cultural institutions; the widespread promotion of cultural initiatives; and the implementation of innovative projects. To realize this cultural transformation will require not only attracting various forms of funding, which is particularly difficult at the regional level, but also the development of a dialogue between the cultural community, the state, business, and charitable organizations with the aim of coming up with effective solutions. Leading museums, theatres, and other cultural institutions, which have successful experience of introducing new ideas and practices and involving businesses in cultural projects, could help to drive this dialogue forward. In order to achieve the planned outcomes set out in the national project, it will be important to scale up this experience across the entire country, and also to create an environment which will promote the development of a tradition of philanthropy and patronage in culture. What issues must be resolved with regard to the Culture National Project by 2024? What types of support for cultural development in the regions should be prioritized? What are the prospects for cooperation between various cultural institutions, and between cultural institutions and the business community? Examples of successful cultural projects. What role might philanthropy and patronage play in implementing the national project?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Reform of Regulation and Oversight: New Directions Despite the early termination of the similarly named priority project on 1 January 2019, reform of regulation and oversight will continue. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has already announced that as part of the reforms, there will be a ‘r...: Despite the early termination of the similarly named priority project on 1 January 2019, reform of regulation and oversight will continue. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has already announced that as part of the reforms, there will be a ‘regulatory guillotine’ – a comprehensive review of mandatory requirements in which all are at risk of being declared no longer fit for purpose. In parallel, the Russian Government is developing an entirely new draft federal law on regulation. This will be a single, systematizing legal act covering each step of the government’s monitoring procedures in detail.
How exactly will the ‘regulatory guillotine’ mechanism be implemented? What will the new mandatory requirements look like? How can we ensure a balance between the interests of business and government during checks?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast The Fuel and Energy Sector: Creating the Conditions for Investment to Guarantee the Continuing Competitiveness of the Russian Economy The fuel and energy sector is currently the largest investor in the Russian economy, and also maintains a leading position on the global stage. It creates value throughout the production chain, from geological surveying to resource consumption (fu...: The fuel and energy sector is currently the largest investor in the Russian economy, and also maintains a leading position on the global stage. It creates value throughout the production chain, from geological surveying to resource consumption (fuel for vehicles, electricity for homes). Improving efficiency at all stages of production will guarantee Russia’s economic development and increase competitiveness. How can we stimulate investment to make this ambitious aim a reality? How can we reconcile traditional sectors of the economy with breakthrough technologies and the economy of the future? Given external pressure and artificial restrictions, how can we create a sufficient stimulus to attract investment and keep developing the sector?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Smart City: From Theory to Practice 2018 saw the launch of the Smart City project across the Russian Federation. Implementing innovative digital and engineering solutions for urban infrastructure will increase the efficiency of urban economic management and make cities more pleasant...: 2018 saw the launch of the Smart City project across the Russian Federation. Implementing innovative digital and engineering solutions for urban infrastructure will increase the efficiency of urban economic management and make cities more pleasant and attractive places to live. Phased implementation of integrated smart solutions in all areas of urban life will increase safety, reduce expenditure on administration, housing, and utilities, improve the urban environment and transport links, and so attract investment. What solutions should be introduced first in Russian cities, and which projects might receive state support? How should the Smart City project be implemented in the regions, and what needs to be included in regional programmes? What global technologies and experience do we need to harness? What mechanisms have been developed to make cities smarter and evaluate progress against this goal? What is the role of the state, business, and residents in shaping the environment of smart cities?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Industrial Clusters: How to Make the Regions More Attractive to Investors The country’s key development aims include becoming one of the world’s five largest economies, accelerating the rate of technological development in the Russian Federation, and creating a highly productive, export-oriented sector within the manufa...: The country’s key development aims include becoming one of the world’s five largest economies, accelerating the rate of technological development in the Russian Federation, and creating a highly productive, export-oriented sector within the manufacturing industry. It is not possible for industry to develop rapidly or for enterprises to increase labour productivity without an influx of investment from major companies that have proven industrial competence and forward-looking development plans. Vital to tackling this challenge will be new industrial models which increase the quality of the offering for potential investors, along with a targeted approach to implementing investment projects, taking into account technological priorities and based on the skills that the region needs and has developed. Russia is currently home to more than 40 industrial clusters across the majority of sectors within the manufacturing industry. Niches for investment in high-tech production projects are appearing as a result of cooperation between clusters. This approach helps to improve the quality of the regions’ investment offering and ensures demand for the clusters’ output. How might we exploit the potential of existing industrial clusters for developing regional industry and establishing innovative production? How are the regions creating new niches for investment? How should we use the potential of interregional industrial cooperation to attract investors to the regions?

10:15–11:30 Broadcast Science and Society: A Strategy for Future Generations It is very difficult to offer a single definition of the term ‘science’ which fully captures its essence. What sets scientific knowledge apart is the profundity of its inquiry into the crux of phenomena, i.e. their theoretical nature. Scientific k...: It is very difficult to offer a single definition of the term ‘science’ which fully captures its essence. What sets scientific knowledge apart is the profundity of its inquiry into the crux of phenomena, i.e. their theoretical nature. Scientific knowledge begins when regular patterns are noticed in a cluster of facts – a general and necessary connection between them which helps to explain why a particular phenomenon happens one way and not another and to predict how it will develop in the future. One of the problems which arises as scientific knowledge accumulates, and which is particularly relevant right now, is the social responsibility which scientists assume for the outcomes of their work. The results of scientific inquiry can turn out to be dangerous to society, in which case their use for non-academic purposes could be detrimental. Scientists must be aware of their responsibility to society: after all, science cannot be separated from public life, and can exert both a constructive and a destructive influence on it. Who are today’s Russian scientists? What should pure research and information that matters to society look like? Which channels for disseminating information should we be using? Are integrated government support programmes needed in this area? What are young scientists in the 2020s likely to be interested in?

12:00–13:30 Broadcast Success Factors: Ideas, Personnel, Skills Address by Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev: Address by Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev

13:30–13:45 Broadcast The Development Award

14:00–15:30 Broadcast The Economics of Urban Comfort In partnership with the State Development Corporation "VEB.RF" Three quarters of Russia’s population live in cities. Not only do cities create sources of economic growth, they also develop new forms of social interaction and shape cultural trends. By attracting the most talented people, cities have the potent...: Three quarters of Russia’s population live in cities. Not only do cities create sources of economic growth, they also develop new forms of social interaction and shape cultural trends. By attracting the most talented people, cities have the potential to become a driving force in the achievement of Russia’s 2024 development goals. Business has a key role to play through investment in a new type of urban economy and environment. What needs to be done to make this happen? How can effective cooperation between urban communities, the authorities, and investors be forged? What factors create a pleasant urban environment and an attractive model of the future for city dwellers? What role can the development institute ecosystem play here? All of these issues will be discussed during the VEB session at the Russian Investment Forum 2019.

14:00–15:45 Broadcast National Infrastructure Priorities for 2024: Defining Them Quickly, Implementing Them Effectively ROSINFRA Infrastructure Congress Event Integrated development of public infrastructure, which must be linked not only to the current needs of businesses, citizens, and the state as a whole, but also to their future requirements, and coordinated efforts on the part of authorities at all...: Integrated development of public infrastructure, which must be linked not only to the current needs of businesses, citizens, and the state as a whole, but also to their future requirements, and coordinated efforts on the part of authorities at all levels to bring the most important projects to fruition: these are the main tasks facing Russia’s leadership over the next six years, as set out in the President’s May Decree. In order to ensure that infrastructure limitations serve to stimulate national economic growth, the government has already prepared a comprehensive development plan for major infrastructure, while financing organizations have proposed a range of credit products which could increase investment. Will the national projects prove effective in helping to tackle infrastructure challenges in the regions? How quickly and efficiently will the project selection and preparation phase be completed, ready for implementation to move forward? Will existing support tools and the proposed standard solutions be helpful here? What are the key conditions for state funding and allocating money from the Development Fund? Will cooperation between the primary development institutions create synergy in infrastructure development?

ROSINFRA National Infrastructure Award Ceremony

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Resources for Growth and Investment Prospects: An Analysis of Asset Realization Practices in Russia’s Regions In partnership with the Deposit Insurance Agency The assets of financial institutions which have gone out of business are one factor in investment opportunities. The book value of assets for sale under the management of the Deposit Insurance Agency currently stands at around RUB 4.5 trillion. Re...: The assets of financial institutions which have gone out of business are one factor in investment opportunities. The book value of assets for sale under the management of the Deposit Insurance Agency currently stands at around RUB 4.5 trillion. Returning these assets to the country’s economy is an important step in improving the investment attractiveness of Russia’s regions, creating new jobs, and increasing regional tax revenues. What investment prospects and new opportunities are available for regional business development, including business projects implemented using assets acquired from liquidated financial organizations? What asset realization practices are being used in the regions? How can the investment potential of liquidated financial organizations’ assets be realized? What are the benefits and advantages to investors of participating in asset auctions?

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Developing the Market for Gas as a Motor Fuel: New Opportunities for Regions and Investors Investment in new markets and technologies is a vital driver of innovative and environmentally-friendly economic development, including in the vehicles and fuel sector. The high octane rating and eco-friendly properties of natural gas make it poss...: Investment in new markets and technologies is a vital driver of innovative and environmentally-friendly economic development, including in the vehicles and fuel sector. The high octane rating and eco-friendly properties of natural gas make it possible to build efficient cars which have low aggregate emissions and will conform to the highest global standards now and for decades to come. Developing the market for gas as a motor fuel will require major investment and create new opportunities. What investment will be attracted to expand the number of gas filling stations and LNG fuelling stations by 2025? Who might be willing to invest in this? How effective is investment in acquiring natural gas-fuelled transport for carriers and citizens? What sort of conditions are being created for investors at the federal and regional levels? What will be the long-term outcomes of developing the market for gas as a motor fuel and related technologies?

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Regional Policy in the Context of Russia’s Spatial Development Through an open public debate which has taken place at a variety of expert forums and in the media, a diverse vision of individual aspects of Russia’s spatial development has been formed. At the same time, the main actors when it comes to implemen...: Through an open public debate which has taken place at a variety of expert forums and in the media, a diverse vision of individual aspects of Russia’s spatial development has been formed. At the same time, the main actors when it comes to implementing the future spatial development strategy will be Russia’s regions, and this is having a definite impact on regional policy as a specific focus of the Russian Government. Regional authorities are talking about the need to improve the transparency of decisions that directly affect the regions and for them to be widely discussed in advance. The most critical issues on the regional agenda concern the cooperation between the federal authorities and the regions in the Russian Federation, as well as the way in which powers are redistributed among them, financial support to Russia’s regions, attracting private funding, the growth of metropolitan areas, regional development support tools, single-industry towns, the urban environment, and housing and utilities, among other questions. All of these areas require the fine-tuning of existing mechanisms, the development of new approaches, and their targeted incorporation into the national projects, with mandatory feedback needed from the regions.

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Transport in Russia: Supporting the Development of Major Infrastructure as a Cornerstone of Economic Growth What does Russia’s major transport infrastructure look like today? What condition is it in, and what does it need? In the current economic context, it is vital for Russia to radically accelerate the development of transport infrastructure, and to ...: What does Russia’s major transport infrastructure look like today? What condition is it in, and what does it need? In the current economic context, it is vital for Russia to radically accelerate the development of transport infrastructure, and to make communication between centres of economic growth easier. Public funding is limited, so private capital will need to be brought in. How should public money be sent? Are sufficient resources available? How attractive are regional projects to investors? What characteristics and individual features make investment projects attractive to the market and potentially successful?

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Creating a Modern School: New Opportunities for the State and Business to Collaborate through the National Education Project In the face of globalization and the nascent digital economy, developing human capital is key to the country’s systematic long-term success, while investment in human resources is the main driver of investment that will result in concrete and meas...: In the face of globalization and the nascent digital economy, developing human capital is key to the country’s systematic long-term success, while investment in human resources is the main driver of investment that will result in concrete and measurable strategic benefits for the socioeconomic development of the regions. In order to increase the level of development in Russia’s regions and make the Russian economy internationally competitive, it is vital to ensure that Russia possesses human resources capable of responding to the challenges of the global economy. Training to produce highly qualified specialists with the skills to implement large-scale projects in high-tech and knowledge-intensive sectors must be systematic. The National Education Project both creates new and develops existing opportunities for individuals at all stages of their education, from ensuring the right conditions are in place to promote early child development and support families, to modernizing vocational education and facilitating continuous professional development for workers. The project aims to establish opportunities for growth and replicate best practices, taking the individual needs and features of each region into consideration. Which regional features allow the project’s best practices to be implemented most effectively? How can we provide the necessary human resources to support the development of innovative sectors of the economy? Which measures undertaken as part of the National Education Project will create opportunities for developing the investment climate in Russia?

14:30–15:45 Broadcast Faith-Based Business Associations: Places of Trust In the face of the ever-changing economic realities of the modern world, new horizons for cooperation based on traditional religious faiths are springing up. One of the features of recent years has been the increasing number of clubs and all manne...: In the face of the ever-changing economic realities of the modern world, new horizons for cooperation based on traditional religious faiths are springing up. One of the features of recent years has been the increasing number of clubs and all manner of other business associations with a basis in faith. These are intended to play an important role in supporting social harmony and diversity, but as business organizations, they also encourage increased business activity and provide support in the search for new sources of capital for business development. This increases levels of business activity both among members of particular faith communities and in society as a whole. Modern cooperative organizations like these can help to attract investment, develop entrepreneurial skills, encourage social mobility, and foster a high degree of independence in the lives of traditional communities. Moreover, associations like these open up new opportunities for interfaith dialogue, which can lay the ground for new horizons for cooperation to emerge within both the state and society. They can also reveal new ways of increasing corporate social responsibility. Are there any success stories concerning cooperation between faiths and business? Can businesses based on the values of traditional religious faiths increase trust in business as a whole and help to uncover new sources of capital? What are the long-term prospects and what needs to be done to make them a reality?

14:30–15:45 Healthy Life Expectancy: The Foundation of Social Development The Event of the Healthy Life Forum Russia’s most important developmental goals include increasing life expectancy to 78 years by 2024, of which 67 should be considered healthy, and to improve the quality of life for the elderly. At present, these numbers differ significantly from r...: Russia’s most important developmental goals include increasing life expectancy to 78 years by 2024, of which 67 should be considered healthy, and to improve the quality of life for the elderly. At present, these numbers differ significantly from region to region and lag behind the European Union. Special state programmes and a bringing together of the efforts of the whole of society are needed to respond to this challenge, especially in light of Russia’s aging population. Health has been shown to depend upon the population’s real income, on affordable and high-quality medicine, on lifestyle choices such as regular physical activity and nutrition, on a safe environment, and on conditions in the workplace. Active involvement in community life, a demand for their experience and knowledge in the labour market, and, of course, respect and concern on the part of young people are of even greater importance to the health of senior citizens. All of these things have a pronounced effect on healthy longevity, which in turn significantly impacts the economic aspects of the life of the elderly.
What tasks need to be resolved by 2024? What measures have proven to be effective in preserving the health of senior citizens? What is the ideal balance for investments in public health by the state, business, and by people themselves? What conditions need to be created for the elderly to play a more active role in the economy? What public and private programmes to support this trend exist in the regions today? What resources will be needed to increase healthy life expectancy?

14:30–15:45 Broadcast The Economics of Hospitality, Today and Tomorrow The global hospitality industry is changing with every passing year. Beach holidays, skiing holidays, cultural and educational holidays, and health and wellbeing holidays are the mainstays of the contemporary tourism industry. Traditional types an...: The global hospitality industry is changing with every passing year. Beach holidays, skiing holidays, cultural and educational holidays, and health and wellbeing holidays are the mainstays of the contemporary tourism industry. Traditional types and forms of holiday are losing ground, with shorter holidays now winning out over longer ones, and active breaks preferred to passive ones. Russia is currently in a position to develop attractive tourism products in line with these new market trends. For instance, over the period 2015–2018, the skiing and spa resorts of the North Caucasus have seen demand for tourism services in these areas grow apace, while sites of historical and cultural interest and nature reserves are seeing more visitors every year. However, the principal limiting factor in the development of the hospitality industry remains the insufficient capacity of the accommodation and other necessary infrastructure in areas popular with tourists across the majority of regions of the Russian Federation. How can we solve the problems inherent in attracting investment to build modern tourism infrastructure? What are the strategic priorities for developing tourism?

16:00–17:15 Broadcast Export Accelerator: Learning to Trade Globally In partnership with the Russian Export Center Acceleration is one of the main tools employed internationally to help companies gain a foothold on foreign markets and the most successful countries are already making use of it. Currently, less than 1% of all small and medium-sized companies in ...: Acceleration is one of the main tools employed internationally to help companies gain a foothold on foreign markets and the most successful countries are already making use of it. Currently, less than 1% of all small and medium-sized companies in Russia are exporters. For comparison, this figure reaches 5–7% in Western countries and is considered inadequate. We face the challenge of creating a comprehensive set of tools and incentives to encourage large numbers of Russian companies to start exporting. The ability to export is an objective measure of a company’s competitiveness, and this is one reason why a company must, when joining an acceleration programme, undergo a full assessment of its export readiness in the following areas: competitiveness of its product, marketing, human resources, experience of exporting, and financial resources. Some pilot export accreditation schemes are already being trialled in Russia: these include the Export Growth Accelerator programme (Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, Russian Export Center), the Practicum Global Shift programme (Moscow School of Management SKOLKOVO), the acceleration of regional companies using professional trackers (Russian Export Center, Nizhny Novgorod Region), and the first online export accelerator (Russian Export Center, Sberbank). Do Russian goods and services face genuine limitations? What can be done to make exporting popular and fashionable? How can modern technology be leveraged for use in export acceleration? Can federal and regional development institutes work together to offer effective state support? What can be learned from the practices of existing accelerators, including international ones?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast Big Data as a New Form of Public Administration A year ago, at the Russian Investment Forum in Sochi, the decision was taken to create a national data management system with the twin aims of avoiding duplication of information across the various existing registers and databases maintained by pu...: A year ago, at the Russian Investment Forum in Sochi, the decision was taken to create a national data management system with the twin aims of avoiding duplication of information across the various existing registers and databases maintained by public authorities, and of facilitating access to primary information. As work on the project has demonstrated, a system based around innovative approaches to working with data has far more potential, and changes the philosophy behind public administration as a whole. What international experience of data-driven development can Russia draw on today? What should the concept behind the development of a national data management system look like? Are the regions ready to change the way they work with data? What models are there for cooperation between businesses and public authorities on a national data management system?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast Best Practices for Socioeconomic Development: Integrated Solutions for the Regions and Cities Federal tools for supporting regional development are getting a lot of airtime at the moment, but unique solutions with a positive socioeconomic impact frequently appear and are implemented within the regions themselves. These can be found in area...: Federal tools for supporting regional development are getting a lot of airtime at the moment, but unique solutions with a positive socioeconomic impact frequently appear and are implemented within the regions themselves. These can be found in areas such as housing and utilities, agriculture, tourism, urban development, and, as of quite recently, social entrepreneurship. Sometimes, these solutions do not even require public funding, but the effect they have can still be very significant. How might regional know-how help to achieve the targets set out in the May Decree? Which solutions have most to offer the regions? How can we evaluate their impact?

Awards Ceremony for the Winners of the All-Russia Regional Best Practices and Initiatives in Socioeconomic Development Competition

16:15–17:30 Broadcast In the Vanguard of Technological Progress: Women in STEM The low proportion of women in STEM professions (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) has traditionally been the result of a number of factors: limitations in the education system, upbringing, and social stereotypes. But even today, ...: The low proportion of women in STEM professions (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) has traditionally been the result of a number of factors: limitations in the education system, upbringing, and social stereotypes. But even today, despite the broad range of professional opportunities available to women in the country overall, there remain considerable gender inequalities in terms of both the number of people employed in STEM fields and the level at which they are employed. Why are few women entering the world of science and technology? What barriers do women face in this field? Do we need mechanisms and programmes to encourage women to study the hard sciences and increase the number employed in STEM fields? What influence can women have, and what influence are they having, on the development of high-tech sectors? What must be done to attract women into STEM? What projects and initiatives might be implemented at schools and universities?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast ‘Rebooting’ Regional Development Tools In order to attract direct Russian and foreign investment in Russia’s regions, more than 430 individual sites are currently up and running, offering special conditions for doing business and access to various government support measures (special e...: In order to attract direct Russian and foreign investment in Russia’s regions, more than 430 individual sites are currently up and running, offering special conditions for doing business and access to various government support measures (special economic zones, advanced special economic zones, industrial parks, and more). However, almost all of the existing tools have attracted criticism from regulators and the media. What must be done to ensure that expenditure (including state expenditure) on building infrastructure to attract business does not turn out to have been futile because of a lack of investors? How can we change the prevailing media narrative so that it favours the development of special zones? How can investors choose the best site for them and avoid confusion? Is it possible to create a single universal tool and apply it in every region to make it simpler and easier for investors to get businesses off the ground in Russia?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast Regional Bonds as a Tool for Implementing Infrastructure Projects and Improving Quality of Life Regional bonds (sub-federal and municipal securities) are an effective mechanism for establishing budgets and financing infrastructure and concessional projects. They promote rapid development and improve people’s quality of life. Employing this f...: Regional bonds (sub-federal and municipal securities) are an effective mechanism for establishing budgets and financing infrastructure and concessional projects. They promote rapid development and improve people’s quality of life. Employing this financial instrument allows regions not only to get the investment they need, but also to attract savings from the local population, giving citizens the chance to play a direct role in their own region’s development. This gives citizens greater ownership of projects that aim to improve quality of life for them and their children. The goals set by the country’s leaders to stimulate investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, ecology, new technologies, and science provide a powerful stimulus for the development of this financial instrument, as do the performance indicators in place for the activities carried out by the authorities in Russia’s regions. What measures must be taken to increase the attractiveness of this financial instrument? How can we reduce the cost of borrowing for federal and municipal entities? How should we change legislative requirements to make this instrument more effective? How might the procedure for issuing sub-federal and municipal bonds be simplified? Which regions are successfully using this instrument and why do they consider it promising?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast How to Develop Tourism: Changing the Way Investment Decisions in the Sector are Made As a distinct sector of the economy, tourism has a unique feature: it tends to involve many other, related sectors too. This is explained in part by the need to devise complex approaches to developing tourism that would enable links to be establis...: As a distinct sector of the economy, tourism has a unique feature: it tends to involve many other, related sectors too. This is explained in part by the need to devise complex approaches to developing tourism that would enable links to be established between opportunities in these sectors of the economy and development institutes, and help to pool the efforts of federal and regional authorities and market participants. To support this, a single model for managing the industry needs to be created, and a new kind of investment decision-making is required for tourism. How should the government change its approach to attracting investment in tourism? How can a new class of tourism assets be created in the economy? What is the right approach to assessing tourist destinations when making investment decisions?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast Innovative Science and Technology Centres: What Should They Look Like? Prevailing Russian legislation provides for the creation of innovative scientific and technological hubs, or so-called ‘tech valleys’. Regions across the Russian Federation are currently hard at work on bringing these valleys into existence, creat...: Prevailing Russian legislation provides for the creation of innovative scientific and technological hubs, or so-called ‘tech valleys’. Regions across the Russian Federation are currently hard at work on bringing these valleys into existence, creating development plans for science and technology hubs focused on global trends and challenges and capable of competing at a high level in research and development on global markets. Now is the time to discuss experiences of organizing hubs like these, creating innovative infrastructure, attracting investors and participating companies, and overseeing technology transfer. What should our aims and goals be when creating tech valleys? How should we go about creating a high-quality system for managing tech valleys? Which best practices for creating and running world-class tech hubs should we look towards when establishing tech valleys in Russia? How can we attract investors in order to create the necessary infrastructure? How can we ensure technology transfer?

16:15–17:30 Broadcast The Competitiveness of the National Jurisdiction: New Directions for Development A competitive national legal system means new opportunities for national businesses and foreign investors. As things stand, Russia’s jurisdiction is moving in the direction of emphasizing the protection of businesses’ rights and encouraging a stab...: A competitive national legal system means new opportunities for national businesses and foreign investors. As things stand, Russia’s jurisdiction is moving in the direction of emphasizing the protection of businesses’ rights and encouraging a stable business environment. The transparency of the country’s judicial system remains an issue, but is no longer as big a problem as it was even a couple of years ago. This means that the national jurisdiction is headed in the right direction, even if it is running up against some practical problems on the way. Modernizing and reforming legal procedure in the Russian Federation is opening up new possibilities for unifying procedural time limits and achieving independence and effectiveness in the judicial system, which may have a positive impact on protecting investors’ rights. What legal measures should be undertaken to stimulate increased investment in Russia’s regions? To what extent does the competitiveness of the national jurisdiction depend on pressure from sanctions, and what measures are necessary to provide businesses with legal protection?

February 15

10:00–11:15 Broadcast Training Employees to Implement National Projects Management skills and a willingness to collaborate are becoming key factors influencing the level and direction of development for Russia’s investment environment at both the regional and federal level. To successfully compete on the global stage,...: Management skills and a willingness to collaborate are becoming key factors influencing the level and direction of development for Russia’s investment environment at both the regional and federal level. To successfully compete on the global stage, it will be essential to foster a community of managers with a shared vision of development, an understanding of the goals and tasks ahead of them, common values, a conceptual apparatus, and a methodology for implementing, exploiting, and sharing best practice in the pursuit of management excellence in both national and federal projects. To what extent does the success of national projects depend on the people directly responsible for implementing them? How can we develop better managers and harness their potential? How can we roll out results to other branches of management across the whole country?

10:00–11:15 Broadcast Education: A Tool for Attracting Investment to the Regions Education in the Russian Federation is on the way to becoming one of the most effective areas for investment, including social investment. Today, in Russia and each of her regions, innovative educational environments are being created, and existin...: Education in the Russian Federation is on the way to becoming one of the most effective areas for investment, including social investment. Today, in Russia and each of her regions, innovative educational environments are being created, and existing environments are being modernized. Mechanisms for investing in education can be widely implemented and replicated. Social investment could become a key driver of socioeconomic development in Russia’s regions. Russia already boasts examples of projects where tools for attracting investment have been successfully tested in the development and implementation stages. Investment projects in education have helped to improve the investment climate in Russia’s regions and promote socioeconomic development in the country. How do mechanisms for social investment in education stimulate the creation of an advantageous investment climate in Russia’s regions and attract new investment in education? Which best investment practices should we prioritize for adaptation and implementation through public–private partnerships in the Russian Federation?

10:00–11:15 Broadcast Economy vs. Climate: Lessons in Adaptation Climate change will have a negative impact on almost all sectors of the economy, as well as infrastructure and business facilities. This will create considerable risks for many investment projects – and for the development prospects of key sectors...: Climate change will have a negative impact on almost all sectors of the economy, as well as infrastructure and business facilities. This will create considerable risks for many investment projects – and for the development prospects of key sectors of the economy. Over the period 1990–2015, the number of dangerous natural phenomena in Russia almost doubled; the number of large-scale natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and forest fires also increased. Energy infrastructure and settlements located in perennial permafrost zones face potential danger. Given current trends in regional climate change, the damage caused could amount to 1–2% of the country’s GDP on average. Which factors must be taken into account in evaluating the damage in particular sectors? What measures is the Government of the Russian Federation considering to reduce economic losses related to the negative consequences of climate change and to reinforce infrastructure? How are businesses reacting to the threats they are facing?

10:00–11:15 Broadcast Social Mobility as a Tool for Economic Growth and Global Competitiveness In the age of the digital transformation of the economy, the need for professional skills is coming to the fore. A key criterion for success in this new world is the ability to bring creative ideas to fruition in multidisciplinary contexts, along ...: In the age of the digital transformation of the economy, the need for professional skills is coming to the fore. A key criterion for success in this new world is the ability to bring creative ideas to fruition in multidisciplinary contexts, along with a deep understanding of fundamental technological, managerial, and business processes, and the ability to navigate a world characterized by huge volumes of data. As demand grows and competition becomes fiercer, objectivity in evaluating potential also increases, and fundamentally new opportunities for growth open up for those who are willing to keep improving their skills, investing in their own development, and serving society. What are the features of programmes which have already been implemented in Russia, and how might they be replicated? How quickly might we see positive changes in society as a result of these projects? How can we maximize social mobility? How should we be harnessing our most important resource, the country’s human capital? Will it be possible to successfully halt ‘brain drain’?

10:00–11:15 Broadcast How Can We Protect Privacy in the Internet of Things Era? In partnership with SKB Kontur Recent years have seen a breakthrough both in the quality of big data processing and in the sources collecting big data. Telecoms operators can determine where you live in real life, who your friends are, when you take your dog for a walk, and how...: Recent years have seen a breakthrough both in the quality of big data processing and in the sources collecting big data. Telecoms operators can determine where you live in real life, who your friends are, when you take your dog for a walk, and how much money is coming into your accounts. Smart checkouts now know what you are buying, while banks know almost everything there is to know about how you earn and spend money. All these aspects of business are beginning to merge, so that, sooner or later, a single unified structure will be able to create a true digital double of each person, digitizing their life and habits. And more likely than not, this structure will not be an omnipotent arm of the state, but rather a powerful commercial operator. How can we protect our privacy? What restrictions should there be on data processing? What responsibilities should companies who process data bear?

10:00–11:15 Broadcast Chemistry for Life The chemical industry is a core branch of Russian manufacturing and makes a significant contribution to the national economy in terms of jobs, products supplied, and exports. The output of the chemical industry is used in nearly every area of the ...: The chemical industry is a core branch of Russian manufacturing and makes a significant contribution to the national economy in terms of jobs, products supplied, and exports. The output of the chemical industry is used in nearly every area of the Russian economy and plays an important role in shaping innovation at every stage of its development. The growth of high-value-added production in the petrochemical and chemical sectors is providing a powerful boost to the development of related branches of Russian industry, such as light manufacturing, medicines and pharmaceuticals, aviation, shipbuilding and engineering, perfume and cosmetics, and many more. The main challenge for the chemical industry over the next six years is to increase the competitiveness of Russian output on both domestic and external markets. What strategy will achieve strong performance in the development of the Russian chemical industry? What support measures does the petrochemicals sector require? What raw material resource base can the Russian petrochemicals industry draw on and to what extent do domestic hydrocarbons undergo further processing? What are the current trends in the digitalization of the Russian chemical industry? Chemicals and the environment – myth or reality?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Counterfeits vs Everyone: The Damage to Legal Business and the National Economy The illicit trade in manufactured goods is a central problem facing the Russian economy. Its damaging consequences affect everyone: the state, business, and ordinary consumers, hence the need for an integrated approach and a package of measures ai...: The illicit trade in manufactured goods is a central problem facing the Russian economy. Its damaging consequences affect everyone: the state, business, and ordinary consumers, hence the need for an integrated approach and a package of measures aimed at reducing the volume of goods that are illegally traded. A special coordinating body created to tackle offences of this kind, the State Commission for Countering Illicit Trade in Manufactured Products, has been in existence since 2015, developing and adopting specific measures in conjunction with the business community. Non-state institutions such as Roskachestvo (Russian Quality System) and industry bodies also play a significant role in preventing illicit trade.
Marking is an effective and increasingly widely-used tool for counteracting illicit trade, and one which offers businesses new types of solutions for creating a digital economy of trust between the state, businesses, and consumers.
How does the black market threaten the economic security of the state? How successful has the work of the State Commission for Countering the Illicit Trafficking of Industrial Products been? What role should non-governmental institutions play in the creation of an orderly market? How does the new unified digital marking and traceability system market protection tool work, and what results have the voluntary experiments returned? What other labelling solutions can business look to?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Green Financing: Developing the Responsible Investment Market Green finance is about using financial services and instruments focused on supporting economic activity which helps to improve the environment, mitigate the consequences of climate change, and encourage smarter use of natural resources. The princi...: Green finance is about using financial services and instruments focused on supporting economic activity which helps to improve the environment, mitigate the consequences of climate change, and encourage smarter use of natural resources. The principal goals of a green finance system are, firstly, to create an institutional environment in which the state and private funders come together to finance green sectors, and, secondly, to maintain effective control over investment in projects where the risk of negative impact on the environment is high. Today, forging and developing a green finance system is considered to be an integral part of the national development strategy, particularly when it comes to implementing national projects and introducing the best available technologies within the manufacturing industry. At the same time, the sustainable development goals and domestic financing are an active part of the international agenda, including for the G20. How can we expand the availability of financing for investment in green projects? How can we increase the investment attractiveness of such projects? How can we improve the way the capital market works to distribute resources and serve the real economy?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast The Role of Financial Markets in the Investment Process Over the last four years, reduced investment has been causing problems for Russia’s economy. Despite a number of encouraging trends, we nonetheless have to admit that the situation on the market for financial resources remains extremely difficult....: Over the last four years, reduced investment has been causing problems for Russia’s economy. Despite a number of encouraging trends, we nonetheless have to admit that the situation on the market for financial resources remains extremely difficult. In order to increase the pace of growth in the Russian economy and renew key funds, considerable sums must be directed towards investment in the real sector, and one source of the necessary resources should be the financial market. In established Russian practice, the key mechanism for attracting funding to develop the real sector of the economy is a classic one: bank lending. Investment lending is not as well-developed in Russia, constituting less than 8% of the market, according to experts. Among the factors holding investment lending back are banks’ increasingly strict requirements for potential borrowers, the lack of long-term passive investment opportunities, a lack of clarity regarding real project payback periods, and the current regulatory demands. What are the development prospects for investment lending in Russia? What changes need to be made to the legislative basis for regulation of the financial market? What are the development prospects for key sectors of the financial market?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Smart Regulation Tools for the Digital Economy Regulatory controls are a fundamental condition for economic development in any state. High-quality lawmaking can provide an impetus for economic growth, while weak development of the regulatory environment can constitute an insurmountable barrier...: Regulatory controls are a fundamental condition for economic development in any state. High-quality lawmaking can provide an impetus for economic growth, while weak development of the regulatory environment can constitute an insurmountable barrier. The challenge facing us today is to create a modern system of state regulation. Rather than being a way of reacting to changes already underway in society, regulatory policy should instead be built in to these changes and capable of being finetuned as society evolves. Our task is to create an effective system for change management which allows for flexible and timely responses to contemporary challenges within a smart regulatory system. One key area of focus for improving the lawmaking system would be how to harness the potential of information technologies and tailored platform solutions: in other words, introducing the principle of ‘the state as a platform’ into state administration. How can we adapt existing regulatory policy to the principles of smart regulation? What are the possibilities and limits of digitalization in the lawmaking process? What are the principal approaches to regulatory control in the digital economy? Are there any opportunities to automate lawmaking processes and make legislation machine-readable? Are there any successful examples of this around the world? What is Russia currently doing in this area?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Russia’s Competitive Venture Investment Market In partnership with RVC Scientific and technological progress is a primary factor in creating a competitive national economy. In turn, the development of new technologies and products is driven by, among other things, an established venture investment market, which must ...: Scientific and technological progress is a primary factor in creating a competitive national economy. In turn, the development of new technologies and products is driven by, among other things, an established venture investment market, which must facilitate economic growth in the Russian Federation: increasing technological independence; developing promising new high-tech sectors, including the promising markets set out in the National Technology Initiative programme; and expanding exports of competitive technologies. What institutional and infrastructure support measures should be offered to venture and direct investment market participants? Which initiatives help to remove existing barriers to the creation and growth of high-tech companies in traditional and new sectors of the economy, including on high-tech markets? What kinds of tax incentives should be introduced for venture capital market participants? What are the sources of funding for the venture market?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Is Russia Prepared for New Challenges in Cyberspace? The development of the digital economy and the ubiquitous process of digitalization hold out the possibility of breakthroughs in work involving data – but, at the same time, significantly increase the risks posed by cyberthreats. According to offi...: The development of the digital economy and the ubiquitous process of digitalization hold out the possibility of breakthroughs in work involving data – but, at the same time, significantly increase the risks posed by cyberthreats. According to official data, over the last six years, cybercrime in Russia has increased tenfold. In January–September 2018, law enforcement agencies recorded more than 13,000 such crimes every month, almost twice as many as the previous year. There is clearly increased interest among criminals in valuable corporate and personal data, especially bank accounts, and the financial sector is at particular risk. As a result, cybersecurity is well on its way to becoming a vital priority both for businesses and at the state level. Which cybersecurity strategies are the most successful? What is the best way to optimize resources and organize joint efforts to ensure maximum security? What needs to be done to predict and prevent cyberthreats?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast Investing in Online Education Integrating modern technologies into the educational process is intended as a way of increasing the quality of higher education. Using information technologies in education helps to develop professional competencies in the skilled employees of the...: Integrating modern technologies into the educational process is intended as a way of increasing the quality of higher education. Using information technologies in education helps to develop professional competencies in the skilled employees of the future. In particular, introducing and developing online education can increase the quality of education overall, and allow people across Russia to take their education into their own hands. How is online education evolving, both globally and in Russia? Are Russian and global models and approaches different? How is responsibility for online education shared between the state and business? How large is the market for online education in Russia? What are its prospects for growth? Is investment in this area profitable for business? Can Russian universities run successful online education businesses?

12:00–13:15 Broadcast The Art of Influence: Investment in Social Communications as a Factor in Sustainable Social Change In partnership with Russian Copper Company In the context of the global sustainable development agenda, social communications are a tool for scaling up ideas with social impact and creating a general culture of social responsibility. Brands which integrate shared human values into their bu...: In the context of the global sustainable development agenda, social communications are a tool for scaling up ideas with social impact and creating a general culture of social responsibility. Brands which integrate shared human values into their businesses win consumers over and help to develop models of responsible behaviour. Foundations and non-profits capable of establishing an open dialogue with their audience attract more funding and get people involved in solving social problems. Why is it so important, indeed necessary, to invest in social communications and develop their creative component, whether that means funding an advertising campaign, an outreach project, or a charity event? Because it gives you the chance to have a significant impact on people’s motivation and actions. What social communications challenges are various organizations facing? Which social communications mechanisms are helping them meet these challenges effectively? How did some well-known social communications projects come to be, in both the for-profit and the non-profit sectors? What trends are defining the future development of social communications?

14:00–15:15 Broadcast The Role of Investment in Social Sector Development According to data from the Russian Ministry of Economic Development published as part of a draft national report on attracting private investment to develop infrastructure and applying public–private partnership mechanisms in the Russian Federatio...: According to data from the Russian Ministry of Economic Development published as part of a draft national report on attracting private investment to develop infrastructure and applying public–private partnership mechanisms in the Russian Federation in order to ensure economic growth, the volume of investment in infrastructure secured annually must correspond to at least 4.7% of GDP (approximately RUB 4.5 trillion). Taking into account the fact that around 12.5% of public–private partnership projects are presently in the social sector, the potential volume of social infrastructure investment should stand at approximately RUB 500 billion annually. In order to attract businesses to this sector, it is essential to establish favourable conditions, improve the relevant legal and regulatory framework, remove hurdles and administrative barriers, and share best practices in public–private partnerships. Attracting private investment into the social sector will make it possible to improve the quality and accessibility of services and the satisfaction of the end users to whom they are provided, put in place conditions to expand the range of these services, and also facilitate the optimization of budgetary expenditure and the effective use of public assets.