A study of the features of Kazakhstan's innovation infrastructure and recommendations for its development

The development of various types of innovation infrastructure (national, regional, sectoral) is particularly important for sustainable development, competitiveness and economic security in countries in the context of the transition to a new technological order and the digitalization of the economy. Innovation infrastructure supports innovation activity in a country and its regions. This issue is becoming increasingly relevant due to the volatility of the global economic system and the difficult geopolitical situation. The aim of this article is to analyze the features of Kazakhstan’s innovative infrastructure and provide recommendations for its further development. The article examines the essence, types, and elements of innovation infrastructure, based on a theoretical review, proving its importance for the innovative development of the country. It demonstrates the role of «hard» and «soft» infrastructure elements, using the example of international experience, and reveals the benefits of various methods for organizing them. The level of regional diversity in innovative development within Kazakhstan is explored, as well as the characteristics of national, regional, and sector-specific types of innovation infrastructures. A study revealed shortcomings in SEZ operations, and the need for clustering innovation activities was justified. Conclusions were drawn about the benefits and opportunities of existing special economic zones and technology parks for organizing clusters. The recommendations on improving the organization and state support for the long-term development of innovative infrastructure were substantiated for the country.