The role of acceleration programs in the development of technological entrepreneurship in Russia

Aim. The work aimed to reveal the role of acceleration programs in the development of technological entrepreneurship based on a comparison with other forms of support for technological entrepreneurs in the Russian Federation (RF). Objectives. The work seeks to identify the differences between acceleration programs and other forms of support, to characterize the methods of support for technological entrepreneurs used by business incubators, private venture investors and venture funds, as well as to conduct a comparative analysis of these forms of support and to determine the role of acceleration programs in the development of technological entrepreneurship in Russia. Methods. The author used a systems approach, logical and comparative analysis to identify the key aspects of acceleration programs and their role in technological entrepreneurship. The intersections between the methods of assistance of various participants in the innovative support infrastructure in Russia are also analyzed. Results. Acceleration programs were established to have the widest range of support methods for startups. Unlike private investors, venture funds or business incubators that focus on individual types of support, the accelerator approach represents an entire ecosystem focused on training and development that helps innovative companies accelerate their growth processes, bring new technologies to market, attract investment, and transfer to a new stage. The analysis results were used to prepare an expanded comparative classification of methods of such forms of support for innovation infrastructure as acceleration programs, business incubators, private venture investors, and venture funds. It was revealed that, on average, the methods of assistance of acceleration programs overlap with the methods of assistance of other structures by 34.4 %. Conclusions. Acceleration programs represent a unique combination of services contributing to acceleration of the startup development. Accelerators, being a part of the state innovation infrastructure for supporting technology entrepreneurs, can also be presented as an infrastructure that provides access to tracking, mentoring, financing, expert support and networking. Accelerators not only accelerate the growth of economic indicators of startups, but also generate new skills, change the way of thinking, and create an innovative environment in society that promotes the development of technological entrepreneurship in the Russian Federation. In order to implement the scientific and theoretical potential of acceleration programs, it is required to analyze their methodology, existing classifications, and the effectiveness of the programs at the national and international levels in more detail. A comprehensive analysis based on empirical data and an interdisciplinary approach will help create more effective strategies for supporting and developing technological entrepreneurs, as well as adapt acceleration methods to the characteristics and needs of the Russian market.