The Main Barriers to the Russian Silicon Valley Development

The article focuses on the institutional causes of the digital economy development. The concept of a “start-up company” and distinctive features of such companies are explored — how they differ from other companies, the reason for their wide expansion and geography of their distribution. Start-up companies are target residents of the Skolkovo innovation center. The article reveals the main reasons contributing to development of these companies or to the choice of geographic location. In conclusion, the main institutional barriers to development of ecosystem start-ups in Russia are identified.