The importance of consulting in the development of small and medium-sized businesses

The article examines the importance of management consulting as a tool for supporting and developing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the context of the digital transformation of the economy. The analysis of statistical data on the dynamics of SMEs in Russia for 2021-2025 is presented, the structure of demand for consulting services is revealed and the key challenges stimulating the need for professional external expertise are described. Special attention is paid to the institutional and behavioral barriers that hinder the effective implementation of consulting, as well as proposed directions for improving the accessibility and effectiveness of expert support for entrepreneurial activities. The conclusion is made about the increasing role of consulting as an element of the business support infrastructure.