Forum Business Program

01

Session "Financial Inclusion for All: Educational Practices for People with Disabilities"

This discussion focuses on addressing a problem systemically — one that extends far beyond basic financial literacy. For people with disabilities, financial barriers are of a fundamentally different nature: inaccessible information formats, a lack of adapted services, and an increased risk of fraud. These challenges make financial inclusion a prerequisite for participating in the economy. Russia already has a number of successful educational practices for people with disabilities, and the goal of this session is to scale them up and embed them into a systemic framework. The event will bring together representatives from government bodies, banks, non‑governmental organizations, and inclusive education experts. The roundtable will review best practices in supporting people with disabilities in accessing financial services, facilitate experience sharing, and produce recommendations for expanding and systematising current initiatives. Particular emphasis will be placed on removing barriers, improving financial awareness, and fostering conditions for financial independence and security. The session will conclude with joint proposals aimed at establishing inclusive conditions that enable people with special needs to take an active part in the country’s economic life.

02

Case Session "Employment Technologies: From Practice to Theory"

An inclusive economy requires creating conditions in which all members of society have equal access to economic opportunities — including access to employment. This case session is an interactive event that will explore modern methods and approaches to hiring people with disabilities. Over the course of the session, participants will examine real‑world examples of how technologies and practical solutions have been successfully implemented to support the integration of people with disabilities into the workplace. Following a review of specific cases, the discussion will shift toward the theoretical underpinnings and result in actionable recommendations for rolling out innovative solutions in the area of labor integration.

03

Meeting of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities "Willpower and Business: Real Stories"

This discussion platform gives participants the chance to hear inspiring examples of people with disabilities who have successfully turned their business ideas into reality and overcome challenges along the path to entrepreneurship. The event will feature real stories of goal achievement, motivation, and barrier‑breaking. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss strategies for self‑realization, share experiences, and explore new approaches to developing inclusive businesses. The event helps build a positive image, showcase the opportunities available to people with disabilities, and encourage the creation of conditions in which entrepreneurs with disabilities can bring their ideas to life and achieve success.

04

Roundtable Discussion "Engaging Working‑Age People with Disabilities in Entrepreneurial Activity"

Presentation of the research results from the study "Factors in Engaging Working‑Age People with Disabilities in Entrepreneurial Activity." Researchers will present the barriers and drivers they have identified in relation to engaging working‑age people with disabilities — including those disabled due to military trauma and veterans of the special military operation. The session will also feature a discussion of current challenges and strategies for integrating people with disabilities into the entrepreneurial sector. The event will bring together representatives from business, government agencies, non‑governmental organizations, and entrepreneurs with disabilities themselves to share experiences, ideas, and best practices. The goal of this roundtable is to identify the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from engaging in entrepreneurship and to develop recommendations for removing them. Participants will explore issues related to creating conditions for inclusive business, boosting motivation and support for entrepreneurs with disabilities, as well as the role of the state and society in fostering their development.

05

Round Table "Social Impact Projects: First Results and Development Prospects"

During a pilot approbation organized by VEB. RF, 13 projects were launched across nine regions of Russia, covering education, healthcare, employment, social protection, and sports. VEB. RF is actively working to have the social impact project (SIP) mechanism enshrined in legislation, which would enable regions to implement such projects more actively and develop them further in the future. This discussion platform is dedicated to analyzing the outcomes of implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of social projects aimed at improving quality of life and enhancing social inclusion. Representatives of organizations running social initiatives, along with experts, investors, and government officials, will discuss successful cases and the lessons learned during the pilot phase of various programs. Attention will also be given to effectiveness evaluation methodologies and the integration of innovative approaches into social practice.

06

Round Table "How Different Abilities Become Equal: Extracurricular Education Without Borders"

This platform is designed to address current challenges in ensuring equal opportunities in the field of extracurricular (supplementary) education. The event is aimed at identifying and removing barriers that prevent all categories of citizens from participating on an equal footing in educational programs outside the formal school system. Round table participants—representatives of educational institutions, government agencies, non‑governmental organizations, experts, and parents—will discuss modern approaches to developing inclusive educational projects and expanding access to extracurricular education for children and adults with diverse needs. Special attention will be paid to the introduction of innovative methods, digital technologies, and mobile solutions that can ensure equal access to high‑quality educational resources.

01

Strategic Session "Inclusive City: Strategy of the Future"

The main goal of the event is to define the key directions and priorities for developing infrastructure, transport, the social sphere, education, and culture so that the city becomes truly inclusive and oriented towards the needs of every citizen. During the session, innovative solutions, best practices, and modern technologies capable of improving the quality of life, ensuring equal opportunities, and stimulating social interaction in the urban environment will be discussed. The result of the strategic session will be a formulated action plan and roadmap for implementing initiatives aimed at creating a barrier-free city environment where everyone can realize their potential and feel part of an active and open community of the future. The design of basic approaches to the legal and regulatory framework for creating not just an accessible, but a universal living environment.

Over 2−3 hours, experts search for answers to fundamental questions, discuss, debate, and propose their solutions.

02

Expert Session "Designing Cities of the Future: New Approaches to Education"

The primary objective of the session is to identify and discuss cutting‑edge approaches to creating urban spaces that can adapt to changing social, technological, and environmental conditions. The discussion will focus on new methods of training and educating specialists who are capable of bringing innovative ideas to life in the fields of urban planning and urban design. The session will address the integration of digital technologies, the use of data and modeling in designing future cities, as well as the formation of multidisciplinary teams of professionals capable of developing comprehensive solutions. Examples of successful projects, international trends, and future prospects in urban design will also be examined.

03

Round Table "Opening the World: Inclusive Practices in Tourism"

On September 1, 2026, legislative amendments will come into effect requiring that newly commissioned accommodation facilities, as well as existing properties, be equipped to accommodate citizens with reduced mobility. This round table will address modern approaches and strategies for the development of inclusive tourism. The discussion will cover effective methods for creating accessible tourism products and services that ensure comfort and safety for all travelers, regardless of physical ability or health status. Existing and emerging international standards aimed at ensuring inclusivity in tourism will be presented, along with their implementation at the national level. The discussion will also explore infrastructure adaptation, the development of specialized programs and routes, as well as efforts to raise awareness and improve professional training among tourism workers. Successful cases of implementing inclusive solutions, modern technologies that enhance accessibility, and international standards and regulations in the field of inclusive tourism will be examined. Particular attention will be paid to the role of government and business in promoting inclusive practices, as well as the need to foster a culture of respect and acceptance within the tourism sector. The event will bring together experts, representatives of the tourism industry, social organizations, as well as people with disabilities and their families to share experiences and best practices.

04

Round Table "Involving Citizens in Environmental Design: Participatory Budgeting and Public Discussion of Landscaping Projects"

A key priority remains the engagement of people with disabilities in addressing local issues—opening up new opportunities for effective socialization and increasing their participation in the public life of modern society. The ultimate goal is to create an atmosphere of comfortable inclusion during joint events and the improvement of cities, towns, and villages. The round table will provide a platform for exchanging experiences and discussing modern methods of public participation in the development of urban and rural environments. The discussion will explore effective mechanisms for involving citizens in the design and implementation of landscaping initiatives—including the organization of public discussions, the use of participatory budgeting, digital feedback platforms, and opinion‑gathering methods—as well as the role of citizens in shaping a comfortable, safe, and sustainable environment. Successful cases of participatory projects will be examined, along with the specifics of their planning and financing, and the impact of public participation on the quality and relevance of decisions.
The outcome of the round table will be a set of recommendations for developing public participation mechanisms, a strategy for promoting participatory budgeting, and an exchange of best practices aimed at increasing the effectiveness of citizen involvement in shaping the urban environment.

05

Pitching Session "The City Through the Eyes of a Young Person with a Disability: How Youth Are Redefining the Accessible Environment"

This session will showcase innovative ideas and projects aimed at creating an inclusive urban environment that meets the needs of young people with disabilities. Participants—young people with disabilities, specialists, and experts—will share their perspectives, experiences, and proposals for improving the accessibility of urban infrastructure, transport, public spaces, and services. During the pitch session, participants will present their ideas, projects, or solutions focused on enhancing inclusivity, and discuss potential pathways for implementation, as well as support from city authorities and the community. The session is designed to foster dialogue between young people with disabilities and professionals, with the goal of encouraging new approaches to designing accessible environments that take into account the views of those who directly face barriers in urban life.

01

Round Table "Supported Living: From Project to System"

A unified legal foundation for supported living was established by Federal Law No. 137-FZ dated April 28, 2023, "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation," which codified the concept of "supported living." Alongside federal legislative reform, the legal frameworks of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation are being updated to address specific issues regulating the organization of supported living in the regions.

At the round table, participants will examine the organization of conditions for independent living, the provision of accessibility and support, as well as the integration of supported living into broader social and housing policies, the formation of a unified approach and strategy for developing supported living, and the organization of interagency cooperation. Necessary measures to form a systemic approach aimed at ensuring the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities to exercise their independence and live fully in society will be discussed.

02

Round Table "A Space of Support for Every Family: Comprehensive Family Support from the Moment of Diagnosis"

This open and trusting discussion is dedicated to supporting families who have received a diagnosis of special needs for a child or another family member. It provides a safe space for exchanging experiences, discussing pressing issues, and seeking solutions aimed at creating conditions for comprehensive family support from the very moment the diagnosis is communicated. The core idea is to highlight the importance of a systemic and holistic approach to support—one that encompasses medical, psychological, social, educational, and legal dimensions. The discussion will cover the principles and practical aspects of providing support to families at the early stages, identify the main needs and barriers families face after receiving a diagnosis, and share stories of successful practices and initiatives designed to create a true "space of support."

03

Case Session "Life Without Barriers: International Exchange of Experience in the Socialization of People with Disabilities"

This interactive event is designed to facilitate the exchange of best practices, ideas, and successful cases in the field of integration and social adaptation of people with disabilities at the international level. During the session, participants from different countries will share their experiences, discuss the challenges they face, and explore solutions for building a more accessible and inclusive society.

04

Discussion Platform "Priority Tasks of Legal Regulation in the Interests of People with Disabilities"

This platform is designed for exchanging views, analyzing current issues, and developing recommendations to improve legislation aimed at protecting the rights and ensuring equal opportunities for people with disabilities. During the event, participants will discuss pressing legal issues, gaps in existing legislation, and proposals for addressing them.

05

Meetup "Regional Experience: Cases and Solutions"

This meetup will showcase regional practices and solutions related to inclusion that were added to the Smarteka database in 2026.

06

Round Table "On the Development of a Comprehensive Rehabilitation System for People with Disabilities"

This expert‑level event is designed to discuss modern approaches, strategies, and practical solutions for building an effective and comprehensive rehabilitation system for people with disabilities. During the discussion, participants will share their experiences, analyze current challenges, and develop proposals for improving the system.

01

Round Table "Socialization of SMO Participants: Regional Services"

This round table will address issues related to the integration and support of participants of the special military operation (SMO) as they transition into civilian society. The event is focused on developing effective solutions and strategies for creating regional services that ensure social adaptation, psychological support, and social inclusion for SMO participants and their families.

02

Round Table "A Modern Approach to Rehabilitation and Habilitation: Best International Practices"

The Agency for Strategic Initiatives has launched a continuing professional education program titled "Best Practices and Technologies for Comprehensive Rehabilitation and/or Habilitation of People with Disabilities." Over 1,000 individuals from 8 pilot regions are currently enrolled: the Republic of Bashkortostan, Voronezh, Nizhny Novgorod, Novgorod, Ryazan, and Ulyanovsk regions, as well as the Altai and Khabarovsk territories. The program comprises more than 120 academic hours of training. Russian and international experts have introduced participants to the world’s best practices, which will be presented at the round table to a wider audience.

03

Round Table "New Challenges in the Assistive Devices Market"

This professional platform is designed to address current issues related to the development and modern trends in the field of assistive devices / technical means of rehabilitation (TMR). Experts, specialists, representatives of government and public organizations, and manufacturers will come together to discuss the main challenges and explore effective solutions for improving the quality and accessibility of rehabilitation technologies.

01

Round Table "Inclusive Practices of Corporate Volunteering"

This round table focuses on including people with disabilities in volunteer activities as active participants, rather than solely as recipients of support. Key topics include supporting their initiatives, as well as recruitment, selection, and training tailored to individual needs, along with creating an accessible environment—including specially equipped workspaces, barrier‑free communication, and transportation to event venues. The discussion will cover modern approaches and best practices for implementing inclusive initiatives in the field of corporate volunteering. The event brings together representatives of businesses, social organizations, experts, and volunteers to share their experiences in creating and developing programs that foster social integration and equal opportunities for all participants.

02

Foresight Session for the Development of Inclusive Volunteering: "How to Move from One‑Off Events to Sustained Engagement"

During the session, participants will jointly analyze existing models of volunteer initiatives, identify key barriers, and explore opportunities for increasing engagement and ensuring the long‑term sustainability of volunteering projects. The session will also focus on designing potential pathways for involvement in volunteer activities, discussing the main challenges and potential constraints for the development of volunteering, as well as reviewing existing methodologies and adjusting them as needed.

03

Round Table "Culture Without Limits: From Talent Inclusion to Leadership in the Creative Economy"

Inclusive culture and personal development go hand in hand. This round table will explore how an inclusive environment helps uncover the talents and abilities of people with disabilities and integrate them into the creative industries. The core idea is that inclusive culture is not merely a matter of social responsibility, but a powerful driver for unlocking individual potential. The discussion will focus on identifying and supporting the talents of people with diverse abilities, creating conditions for their professional growth, and integrating them into the creative sector. Participants will share experiences, best practices, and strategies for building an inclusive environment that fosters personal development and unlocks the potential of every individual. Special attention will be paid to the need to foster a culture of recognition and respect for each person’s uniqueness, as well as the importance of supporting creative industries in their implementation of inclusive initiatives.

04

Discussion "Sports Without Borders: Physical Rehabilitation and Inclusion Through Movement"

For a person with a disability, sports mean more than just physical recovery; they represent an opportunity to regain self-confidence, build social connections, and find new life goals. Physical culture and adaptive sports have proven their effectiveness as rehabilitation tools: they shorten recovery times, reduce dependence on medication, and improve the quality of life. At the same time, high-performance sports open a pathway for people with disabilities toward professional self-realization and international recognition.

During the discussion, participants will review modern approaches to physical rehabilitation, successful practices of implementing inclusive sports programs, and the importance of supporting and motivating people with disabilities to lead active lifestyles. Special attention will be given to how sports help break down stereotypes, promote socialization, and shape a culture without borders. The discussion covers issues concerning the role of team and individual sports in restoring physical and psychological resources, as well as the need to create accessible infrastructure and garner support from the government and society.

The development of adaptive sports in Russia deserves special attention. Today, the country demonstrates steady growth in this direction: the network of specialized sports schools and rehabilitation centers is expanding, new training methods tailored to different nosologies are being introduced, and the competition system is developing from the regional to the international level. The government systematically supports adaptive sports through national projects and federal programs, creating conditions to involve thousands of people with disabilities in regular physical culture activities, as well as to train elite athletes who worthily represent Russia in the international arena.