Abstract. Since the middle of last century, the developed countries chose an orientation of almost all spheres of economic activities towards innovation. By the beginning of XXI century, this has paved the way for a new technological revolution.  Russia is still at the preparatory, pre-innovation stage. It calls for an analysis of the conditions of forming and of the driving force of the “new economy”, for a definition of the necessary time and resources. On this path, the priority should be given not to a support of selected industries but to creating an innovative climate throughout the country.