The role of local governments in the development of entrepreneurship and self-employment in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

The paper is focused on the analysis of the interaction of small businesses and government in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The purpose of the research was to study the problem areas in the development of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and to determine the degree of participation of local governments in the formation of regional entrepreneurship. The relevance of the chosen topic is due to the fact that in modern realities, when the external environment dictates its own rules for small businesses, entrepreneurs do not have time to embrace rapid changes in this segment and at this moment the real help from the authorities is necessary. The data of a sociological study consisting of questionnaires and clarifying interviews are analyzed (266 respondents, November 2019). Particular emphasis is placed on comparing urban and rural study participants in order to identify overall satisfaction with government bodies in urban and rural areas. The research has allowed to identify the problems that impede the development of individual entrepreneurial activity in villages and cities of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) (high tax rates, problems with logistics, lack of experience in entrepreneurial activity, high rents, a large number of competitors, etc.), faced by entrepreneurs and self-employed in opening and running their own business. It has been shown that self-employed are the most vulnerable group within small businesses. The recommendations have been developed to improve the interaction of local government and small businesses.