THEORY AND PRACTICE OF SOCIAL INNOVATION IN RURAL AREAS
E.V. Rudoy1, M.S. Petukhova1,2, M.V. Kondratiev3
1Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Novosibirsk, Russia
2Institute for Agrarian Studies, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia
3Institute of Economics and Industrial Engineering, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
Keywords: rural areas, social innovations, local initiatives, local community, development projects, co-financing of territorial development, public participation, local issues, rural settlements
Abstract
This article explores social innovations and initiative projects within rural areas of Russian regions. Its primary goal is to develop both theoretical principles and practical suggestions for social innovation projects in Russia's rural regions. These aims are achieved by analyzing existing international and local experiences in executing programs and projects fostering social innovation in rural areas. The study employs methods such as theoretical analysis of publications, including scientific articles and analytical reports, along with quantitative secondary analysis of empirical data. The research hypothesis asserts that social innovations in rural areas, manifested as initiative projects, can effectively address territory-specific priorities and foster positive perceptions of rural living. These innovations activate local initiatives, engage communities and motivate their growth, disseminate new knowledge, and enhance the quality of rural life. A clear link is established between the quantity of implemented social innovation projects in rural regions and the quality of life among rural residents. Additionally, the study concludes that relying solely on local communities as innovation sources is inadequate; diversifying funding sources, particularly by involving businesses, is crucial. Businesses are incentivized to improve rural living standards and boost effective demand. The study’s findings are applicable to federal and regional authorities, guiding their decision-making processes to transform social realities within rural areas.
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