ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF THE TAMBOV REGION: PROBLEMS AND GROWTH POINTS

The article is devoted to the study of the set of social and economic resources, opportunities, and factors that determine the ability of the Tambov Region to achieve economic growth and development. Based on the analysis of statistical data, scientific publications, and strategic documents of the region, the current state of the main sectors of the economy has been assessed. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the Tambov Region's competitive advantages, the number of employed people, SMEs, the state of socio-economic indicators, and the investment climate. The study identifies a number of challenges that hinder the realization of regional potential, including demographic challenges, migration of skilled personnel, and insufficient development of SMEs. The study proposes solutions to these challenges aimed at increasing the region's competitiveness and improving the quality of life for its residents. Key areas of development include promoting and developing traditional economic sectors, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and increasing the region's investment attractiveness. As a result, the main strengths and weaknesses of the region were identified, and support measures were developed to attract and retain qualified specialists (using targeted training programs, preferential mortgage programs, and developing rural infrastructure), and to support small and medium-sized businesses (use of targeted training programs, preferential mortgage programs, and development of rural infrastructure), support for small and medium-sized enterprises (application of grant support for innovative projects in the agricultural sector, expansion of the My Business network, and promotion of local producers through the Tambov Brand), as well as addressing demographic challenges by creating attractive living and working conditions in the region. The proposed measures will ensure sustainable growth in the region in the long term and improve the quality of life for the population.