Verification of classical organizational life cycle theories: an empirical analysis of enterprises in the Republic of Karelia

The article empirically verifies classical organizational life cycle models (Greiner, Adizes, Miller & Friesen, Chandler) using enterprises from the Republic of Karelia as a case study. A comparative analysis of the theories is conducted, identifying their stages, similarities, differences, advantages, and limitations. The primary goal is to assess the relevance and applicability of these models in modern Russian regional contexts, focusing on financial and organizational patterns corresponding to different life cycle stages. The applicability of basic life cycle stages (growth, maturity, decline) for regional companies is confirmed. The dominance of the "Go-Go" and "Prime" stages (Adizes) is identified. It is demonstrated that companies can avoid decline through timely adaptation. Specificities in the development of Karelian enterprises are revealed, stemming from the regional economy (the role of the resource sector, historical specifics of privatization), necessitating adaptations to classical models, especially at the "Adolescence" and "Aristocracy" stages. The conclusion outlines prospective research directions: the impact of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development on organizational life cycles. The findings are valuable for practicing managers and researchers in organizational development and strategic planning.