The Role of Small and Medium Entrepreneurship in the Economy of Russia

Small and medium entrepreneurship is an important factor in the development and transformation of the Russian economy. Taking this into account, the study of the current employment structure in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is topical. The subject of study is the role of SMEs in the modern Russian economy and the potential for its increase. The aim of the research was to assess the patterns existing sectoral and regional structure of employment in SMEs including individual entrepreneurs. The study was based on official statistical data all SMEs in Russia for 2015. For modeling we used functions of normal distribution, quality of approximation empirical data by these functions was analyzed by tests Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Pearson, and ShapiroVilk. The hypothesis of research - presence significant differentiation of indicators characterizing the share of SMEs employees by regions in the total number of employed population, as well for types of economic activity. Based on the results of the research hypothesis was confirmed. Trade, manufacturing and real estate operations accounted for the largest share in the total number of SMEs employees. SMEs did not play significant role in fishing and fish farming, mining, education, healthcare, production and distribution of electricity, gas and water, as well as financial sectors. The presence of SMEs development significant reserves in Russia is proved. Identified regions with high and low entrepreneurial climate. The methodology and tools that were used in the research can be applied to similar studies for countries with a significant number of territorial (administrative) units. Government, regional and municipal authorities may use the research results in the practice of formation and implementation of entrepreneurship development projects and programs, including those with the aim to increase its role in the regions and municipalities where SMEs is not sufficiently developed.