The National Academy of Sciences of Belarus suggests providing state support to enterprises engaged in processing local fuels in small and medium towns, Chairman of the Board of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB) Mikhail Myasnikovich said at the seminar for executives of national and local state administration bodies on November 30. In his words, foreign experience shows that projects for utilising local fuels are implemented mainly at the expense of small business. The share of local fuels is so far small in Belarus’ energy budget, which is why it is necessary to encourage projects in this area, for example, the creation of energy service companies. The decision concerning the state support for the companies that implement such projects will have to be made soon. On the whole, the programme for the development of small and medium towns should be implemented taking into account the state programme for the innovation development. A large number of science-intensive projects could be implemented in provinces, noted Mikhail Myasnikovich. A step-by-step approach is advisable in the development of small and medium towns. According to the official, top-priority attention should be paid to raising the competitive ability of products and boosting production capacities. In the future it will contribute to raising earnings of individuals, will allow addressing several social issues. Mikhail Myasnikovich pointed out possibilities for starting up the production of consumer goods and foods in small and medium towns. The NASB head believes it is necessary to streamline taxation of investment projects implemented in small towns. In his opinion, requirements for foreign investors willing to partake in such projects should be revised. According to Mikhail Myasnikovich, cluster solutions in the economic development of provinces are effective. As an example he cited the brand Savushkin Product, which unites several manufacturers. Mikhail Myasnikovich also suggested organising consultations about the organisation and management of businesses in small and medium towns.