The study examines the innovative potential of the Vologda region as one of the key factors 
in the sustainable socio-economic development of the region. The main indicators of the innovative activity of enterprises, the volume of expenses for scientific research and development, and 
the dynamics of the introduction of technological innovations are analyzed. The study revealed positive trends in the preservation and development of the region's innovation potential: 
the development of comprehensive research work, an increase in the number of organizations introducing innovations, an increase in the production of innovative goods, an increase in government support measures for high-tech projects and the researcher involved in them. Particular attention 
is paid to the formation of a regional innovation infrastructure: a grant support system, work with the Innovation Promotion Fund. Examples of successful innovative companies and projects implemented in industry, the IT sector and the agro-industrial complex are given. Key problems were noted - insufficient commercialization of research results, limited funding and a relatively low level 
of business innovation activity compared to the national average. It was concluded that there 
is a significant scientific, technical and educational potential, which, with the comprehensive support of the state and business, is able to ensure the transition of the Vologda region to an innovative type of development.