This is the first publication of the Department of Social and Labor relations that deals with the subject, entirely new to the Center. It is devoted to the analysis of the prospects for the formation of industrial clusters in the regions of the Russian Federation. The research is based on Italy’s experience, where the industrial clusters determine, in many respects, the lines of development of Italy’s economy and the socio-economic role of small business. Taking into consideration the transformations occurring in Russia today, the authors conclude that the analysis of the prerequisites and prospects for a similar phenomenon in Russia is, undoubtedly, of practical and theoretical value. The book also contains information on the results of research conducted within the framework of EDEF Russian-Italian project and an article by Dr. Sautkina, V.A.