Financing of the small and medium-sized business sector in Russian practice: modern tools and priorities

The article is devoted to the review of the key financial instruments for supporting the sector of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Russia at the state level. The directions of financial support for SMEs within the framework of federal and regional programs are highlighted. It is noted that in the domestic practice of SME development, the state actively uses both direct and indirect support tools. Special attention is paid to the provision of subsidies and concessional lending. In 2020-2021, in the context of the Covid 19 pandemic, several FOT (wage fund) programs are being implemented, loans for which are issued for small amounts, the amount of which is regulated by the terms of the program and depends on the number of employees of the company. The article highlights online lending platforms, stock market tools, and digital platforms for supporting SMEs as promising tools for developing financial support for SMEs. It is also concluded that it is necessary to coordinate and consolidate various support programs for SMEs.