The Autonomous Non-Commercial Organization "Agency for Strategic Initiatives to Promote New Projects" (ASI) and the Roscongress Foundation have announced an extension of the application period for the annual forum "Strong Ideas for a New Time" and the "Know Ours" competition for growing Russian brands until June 1, 2025. This decision will allow more entrepreneurs and innovators from all regions of Russia to present their projects and receive support at the federal level.
Participation of the Karelian Developer
The competition participants include Karelian Developer (sole proprietor Andrey Ruslanovich Shestakov), which submitted an application through the state entrepreneur support platform MSP.RF. The application has already been confirmed and contains detailed information about the new product – the GIRVAS Content Management System, released at the end of 2024.
The application includes:
- Links to demonstration videos of the system;
- Access to the source code repository;
- Product presentation;
- Entry in the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media"s Registry of Russian Software.
This highlights the product"s innovative potential and its compliance with import substitution and digital independence requirements.
About the "Know Ours" Competition
The "Know Ours" competition was launched in 2022 as part of the "Strong Ideas for a New Time" forum, held by the ASI and the Roscongress Foundation with the support of VEB.RF and in accordance with the decree of the President of the Russian Federation. Over the past two years, the idea.roscongress.rf/brand platform has received over 17,000 applications from small and medium-sized businesses across all 89 regions of the country.
Participation Criteria
Companies that:
- Are small or medium-sized businesses;
- Demonstrate stable growth and development;
- Have a high level of production localization (at least 30%);
- Enjoy customer trust;
- Implement social initiatives and are ready to scale up brand promotion.
Selection Procedure and Jury
Winners are determined by an expert jury consisting of representatives of competition partners, regional government bodies, and the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI). Evaluation is based on a number of criteria, including innovation, social significance, potential for scalability, and contribution to regional economic development.
Seasonal Nominations and Features
In 2024–2025, the competition will be held in five main and several special categories, including areas for companies in small towns (up to 100,000 residents), as well as projects related to developing marketing and e-commerce competencies. Particular attention is paid to simplifying access to marketplaces.
Prizes and Support for Winners
Competition winners will receive comprehensive support, including:
- Promotion on marketplaces and in retail chains;
- Placement in media and new media;
- Outdoor advertising;
- Grants and access to educational programs;
- Consultations with business experts;
- Membership in professional associations;
- Free participation in major industry events.
The Importance of the Competition for the Development of Russian Business
The "Know Ours" competition has become one of the key platforms for supporting and promoting domestic brands, contributing to increased recognition of Russian goods and services, as well as the development of the entrepreneurial environment in the country. During the competition, many participants were able to significantly expand their audience, enter new markets, and secure investment for further development.
How to Apply
Applications for the competition are accepted until June 1, 2025, on the official website idea.roscongress.rf/brand. Participation is open to anyone who meets the selection criteria.
Reference: The "Strong Ideas for a New Time" forum is an annual platform for discussing strategic initiatives and finding solutions for the development of the Russian economy and society. The "Know Ours" competition is part of the national program to support domestic producers and industries.