This article examines the theoretical foundations and conceptual approaches to strategic innovation management and its role in the modern economic system. The essence and content of the concept of "innovation" are analyzed, and various scientific interpretations defining innovation as a process, result, system, tool, and change are systematized and compared. The study also explores the specific features of strategic innovation management in entrepreneurial entities, key factors in the formation of innovation potential, and the regulatory and legal framework. The article analyzes the views of both domestic and foreign scholars (Komarov, Komkov, Asimova, Glazyev, OECD/Eurostat, and others) and substantiates the importance of systemic and evolutionary approaches in innovation management

This study assesses Uzbekistan’s innovation efficiency from 2020 to 2025 using Global Innovation Index (GII) data and compares it with global leaders (Switzerland, Sweden, USA), top overperformers (India, Vietnam, Morocco), and regional peers (Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan). Although Uzbekistan’s overall GII rank improved to 79th in 2025, its innovation outputs remain far below inputs, resulting in an average efficiency gap of 23 ranks. The three countries of India, Vietnam, and Morocco achieve better results than expected based on their input levels, but Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan produce outcomes that fall short of their potential. The main challenge for Uzbekistan is not investment levels but weak conversion of inputs into outputs, due to limited R&D commercialization, weak industry–research linkages, and low high-tech exports. The research suggests Uzbekistan should improve its national innovation system coordination through targeted foreign investment and venture financing for selected sectors to build an innovation-based economy

The article substantiates a territorially-oriented mechanism for financing innovation activity based on targeted deductions of enterprises from the corporate profit tax. The relevance of the study stems from the high territorial concentration of the innovation potential of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the capital region against the background of low innovation activity of enterprises in the regions. The author proposes the formation of local territorial innovation funds at the district level through the redistribution of 1 % of the enterprises' profit tax without increasing the aggregate tax burden. Based on official statistics on 12,239 enterprises of the Syrdarya region, the potential volume of the funds is estimated by districts and economic sectors. The procedures of fund formation, governance and allocation are described; the model is compared with international analogues (Hungary, Brazil, the USA) and with the cluster model of innovation development; advantages, risks and ways to mitigate them are assessed

This study investigates the role of ESG-driven innovation as a strategic source of competitive advantage in the banking sector, with a comparative focus on state-owned and private banks across emerging and developed markets. Drawing on the Resource-Based View and Dynamic Capabilities theory, it develops a novel ESG Innovation Index that captures the depth and integration of sustainability technologies, such as AI-based ESG analytics, carbon tracking platforms, and digital reporting systems into core banking functions. Using a panel dataset of 68 banks from Central Asia and benchmark economies (2015–2024), the study employs fixed-effects and system GMM models to assess the impact of ESG innovation on profitability (ROA, ROE), operational efficiency, market share, and investor attractiveness. Results reveal that ESG innovation significantly enhances financial and operational performance, while the magnitude of its impact is substantially higher among private banks. The findings highlight that ownership structure moderates the innovation–performance nexus, with private banks leveraging technological agility for greater returns, whereas state-owned banks tend to pursue compliance-oriented sustainability agendas. The research contributes to strategic management and sustainable finance literature by framing ESG innovation as a contingent dynamic capability and offers policy insights for regulators seeking to balance innovation incentives across ownership types.

This article analyzes the importance, scientific, theoretical, and legal foundations for attracting investment in innovation. Investment is viewed as a key factor in transforming scientific ideas into new products and technologies. Scientific and theoretical approaches to the relationship between investment and innovation (Schumpeter, Drucker, the concept of national innovation systems, and endogenous growth models) are discussed. The legislative framework of the Republic of Uzbekistan is examined from a legal perspective, including the Laws "On Investments and Investment Activities" (2019), "On Innovation Activities" (2020), and the Innovative Development Strategy for 2022-2026. Venture capital financing mechanisms, regulatory testing platforms for startups, and international experience are discussed. The need for a comprehensive approach combining government support, private capital, and legal guarantees to ensure sustainable innovative growth is emphasized.

The article analyzes the main directions for the development of innovation clusters, their role in economic development, and factors for increasing the efficiency of the innovation ecosystem. Priority tasks for strengthening cooperation between science, education, and production, and improving cluster models in high-tech industries will be highlighted

The article analyzes the progress of the Triple Helix innovative model, the reasons and conditions for its change. The original model considered the interaction of the state, business structures and the scientific (including university) community. The article demonstrates how the interaction of elements becomes more complex with the emergence of the fourth, called "public" (media, culture, creative industry, etc.). The role of this element in the Quadruple Helix innovative model is studied. The significance of the work lies in clarifying the characteristics and conditions for the complication of innovative interaction. The Fivefold Helix innovation model illustrates what qualitative changes occur in the relationships of innovation process participants. It accumulates ecological and social aspects of development.

This article examines the specifics of managing enterprise innovation activities in the context of the digital transformation of the economy. It examines the impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on improving the efficiency of innovation processes and the competitiveness of enterprises. The need to improve innovation management mechanisms in the current economic environment is substantiated

This article provides a scientific analysis of the main characteristics of the innovation system and its infrastructural structure. The study examines the role of innovation system infrastructure in ensuring regional sustainability, identifies the key elements of regional stability, and comprehensively highlights the processes of innovation infrastructure formation. In addition, the interrelation between the formation of innovation infrastructure and regional sustainability is theoretically and practically substantiated

This article scientifically examines the role of innovation policy in accelerating regional socio-economic development. In the context of globalization and digital transformation, it emphasizes that third-generation policies aligned with regional innovation systems (RIS) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a key factor in ensuring economic growth. The study is based on systematic literature review (SLR) methodology and analyzes a number of research works published in recent years in the Scopus, Web of Science, and ResearchGate databases. The results indicate that innovation policy, as exemplified by the European Union (S3 strategies) and China (MLP programs), increases GRDP by 5-15%, enhancing employment and competitiveness, although institutional constraints and polarization risks persist in less developed regions. The conclusion demonstrates that the effectiveness of the policy depends on R&D investments and university-industry collaboration. Among the recommendations are increasing subsidies and introducing flexible conditions, while future research should focus on developing countries.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the development of innovative entrepreneurship in the regions of Uzbekistan during 2024–2025. The relevance of the study is justified by the observed regional disparities in innovation activity and investment capacity. The research methodology is based on content analysis, comparative analysis, induction, and logical generalization. The author developed a Regional Innovative Entrepreneurship Index (HITI), and calculations were conducted using official statistical data. The results reveal significant territorial differentiation in innovation performance. Regions with higher index values demonstrate advanced innovation infrastructure and investment concentration, while regions with lower scores face institutional and financial constraints. The paper proposes strategic directions for improving innovation policy based on a differentiated regional approach

This article examines the economic essence of regional investment-innovation processes, their structural components, operational mechanisms, and specific features that emerge at the territorial level. The study analyzes the interrelation between investment activity and innovation development, their impact on the regional economic potential, and the role of infrastructure, institutional environment, and governance mechanisms in improving process efficiency. The research also highlights regional disparities, resource allocation factors, clustering processes, and modern forms of public-private partnerships. The findings provide practical value for enhancing regional competitiveness, formulating innovation development strategies, and improving regional investment policies

This study analyzes the current state of innovation project management practices in industrial enterprises of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Using major companies such as UzAuto Motors, Almalyk MMC, Navoi MMC, Uzbekneftegaz, and Uzkimyosanoat as case studies, the research examines technological modernization processes, innovation management systems, and factors influencing their efficiency. Statistical, comparative, and content analysis methods were applied to develop practical recommendations for improving innovation project management mechanisms at the enterprise level

This article examines the current state of export diversification in Uzbekistan and explores opportunities for innovation-driven export transformation. The study employs export diversification indicators, Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA), and Product Space methodology to identify existing comparative advantages and future diversification opportunities. The findings reveal that Uzbekistan’s exports remain concentrated in traditional sectors; however, substantial opportunities exist for upgrading toward more sophisticated and higher-value-added products through innovation, human capital development, and productive capacity enhancement. The study provides policy recommendations for strengthening export competitiveness and accelerating structural transformation

The article examines the importance of the Triple Helix model for improving the efficiency of regional innovation systems. Based on the analysis of scientific works, it reveals the role of universities, business, and the government in shaping the region’s innovation environment. Special attention is paid to the entrepreneurial university, technological entrepreneurship, the commercialization of scientific developments, and regional innovation infrastructure. The conclusion is drawn that the Triple Helix model can improve the efficiency of regional innovations only if its participants interact in practice, rather than merely existing as separate formal institutions

Uzbekistan’s innovation policy is aimed at accelerating economic growth, ensuring efficient use of resources, expanding into new markets, and improving public welfare. In this regard, the strategies and programs being implemented serve the country’s long-term development objectives. The article examines the main directions of innovation policy, its impact on various sectors of the economy, as well as existing opportunities and challenges, based on a scientific and analytical approach.

In this article, foreign experiments of the development of innovative-investment entrepreneurship and their possibilities of application in the conditions of the national economy are scientifically-theoretically covered. In the current process of globalization, the introduction of innovations and the effective management of investments have become an important factor in economic development. Foreign experience shows that in the development of innovative-investment entrepreneurship, financial mechanisms, the perfection of the legal base, the initiative of entrepreneurs and the high level of scientific potential occupy an important place. The implementation of these experiences in the national economy makes it possible to develop innovative infrastructure, form a venture capital market, stimulate the private sector and support the activities of startups. At the same time, it is necessary to adapt foreign experience to national conditions, effectively use existing resources and improve the national innovation system. This article will analyze foreign experiences and highlight the mechanisms of their implementation for the Uzbek economy, as well as provide theoretical and practical directions for the development of national innovative and investment entrepreneurship.

This article examines how universities are transforming into key drivers of technological innovation and economic development as their role in society expands. This shift leads to a new trajectory in university evolution. The transition to an entrepreneurial university requires establishing a strategic direction, maintaining a commitment to the knowledge generated within the institution, and ensuring its application, primarily on a regional level. Entrepreneurial universities enhance traditional research universities by fostering stronger connections with society. They integrate education, research, and industry, leveraging real-world challenges to help graduates address unemployment. Uzbekistan's Higher Education Development Concept until 2030 sets the goal of ranking among the top 50 countries in the Global Innovation Index by 2030. In this context, the significance of entrepreneurial universities is emphasized as a key factor.

The article analyzes the measures and mechanisms for supporting innovative activities in Uzbekistan. It examines state strategies, innovation technoparks, financial support, and international cooperation in promoting innovations. In addition, the successful experience of Western European countries in supporting innovation is analyzed, highlighting its relevance and potential application in Uzbekistan. It is noted that the legal and economic conditions created aim to enhance the competitiveness of Uzbekistan's economy through the development of innovation.

Productivity is important in the development of agriculture. Innovative activity plays a major role in increasing agricultural productivity. The article examines the issue of the efficiency of innovative activity in agriculture. The composition of efficiency indicators in the assessment of innovative activity in agriculture was studied. The impact of innovative activities on the development of agriculture was evaluated empirically. Based on the analyses conducted, relevant conclusions were drawn

This article proposes an integrated multi-criteria methodology for assessing the efficiency of innovation and investment activities using the example of sports equipment manufacturing enterprises. The methodology is based on a composite index that combines financial, innovation, and market criteria. The practical application of the proposed methodology is demonstrated through the analysis of empirical data from “DDR sport” LLC and “Shahdam sport” LLC for the period 2021–2025. Tabular and graphical analyses confirm the diagnostic capabilities of the methodology

The article provides a brief description of the state of the economy of Uzbekistan and the relevance of its further development associated with the creation and use of innovative products. The highest concentration of startup initiatives is shown in such industries as IT, FinTech, E-commerce, EdTech, AgriTech, MedTech. Most startups and resources are concentrated in the city of Tashkent and large cities  like Samarkand, Bukhara and Fergana. The factors hindering the formation of a full-fledged startup ecosystem in the country and its regions are shown. Particular attention is paid to the problem of startup financing. Weak investment support at the initial stage of startup development, the low level of venture infrastructure and the legal framework for venture capital are emphasized. The evolution of the startup ecosystem in Uzbekistan is presented, starting with support for entrepreneurship and ending with the creation of a state system of venture funds. The development of the startup ecosystem in Uzbekistan is associated with the need to improve the legal framework, create a favorable business infrastructure, and introduce new mechanisms for financial and legal support. Proposals for the further development of innovation and the startup ecosystem in Uzbekistan have been systematized.

The formation of an effective competitive environment in regional consumer goods markets is a key condition for sustainable economic growth, consumer welfare and innovation-driven development. This study discusses the fundamentals, structural variables and strategic mechanisms of economic modernization and market liberalization affecting the competitiveness of regional consumer goods markets. Using a combination of comparative analysis, econometric modeling and empirical research in selected regions, the study identifies key factors such as market concentration ratios, entry barriers, institutional support mechanisms and consumer demand dynamics that determine the intensity of competition. Empirical results show that regions with diversified production structures, high levels of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) activity and strong institutional arrangements have higher market efficiency and consumer satisfaction. In addition, the study highlighted the importance of digital transformation, innovation ecosystems and public-private partnerships as strategic levers for building competitive advantages in the consumer goods sector

This article theoretically argues that digital transformation is a strategic necessity for banks to remain competitive with fintech companies as a result of rapid technological advancements in digital transformation. In addition, the theoretical foundations of digital transformation in retail banking are critically examined, and the main principles of diffusion of innovation theory, resource-based view (RBV), institutional theory, service-oriented logic (SDL), technology adoption models, and dynamic capabilities are extensively analyzed. It is argued that digital transformation is not just about implementing digital tools, but also about creating value, delivering services, working with customers, improving efficiency, and increasing interbank competitiveness. By analyzing a large body of scientific literature, the study identifies gaps in existing theoretical frameworks and attempts to identify how banks can adapt to the digital economy, increase investment in innovation, and become digitally mature. Such analyses contribute to the field both scientifically and practically by offering comprehensive development models to understand the systemic and multidimensional dynamics of digital transformation in retail banking.

This article analyzes the scientific and methodological approaches to assessing the effectiveness of innovation activities in enterprises. The paper reveals the theoretical foundations of organizing innovation activities, focusing on resource requirements, qualitative and quantitative evaluation criteria, as well as the scientific views of leading Russian and foreign scholars (Zavlin, Fatkhutdinov, Safronov, Somenkova, and others). In addition, the article highlights the essence of applying the discounting method and indicators such as the Profitability Index (PI), Net Present Value (NPV), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) in evaluating the effectiveness of innovative activities