If we consider it as a purely theoretical construct, the economy that is based on fostering the spirit of free enterprise has many advantages, i.e., innovations, fair compensation and positive social dynamics. But in reality, it turns out that it also ushers in monopoly, exploitation and inequality. Still, certain elements ‘invented’ or discovered during the study of competitive markets with a strong spirit of entrepreneurship can and should be used in the development of an active industrial policy. Such elements include the phenomenon of high-growth companies first mentioned by D. Birch in the 1970s. Based on the analysis of Russian industrial companies’ financial performance, the authors identify high-growth companies, determine their sectoral structure and analyze growth leaders. The article presents a structural and logical model that describes the place of high-growth companies during the implementation of an active industrial policy and identifies main participants of relations that arise in connection with the development of high-growth companies, including elements of innovative infrastructure and development institutions. The authors highlight the role of education and science in the development of high-growth companies in Russia and also suggest measures for legislative support of such companies in order to ensure accelerated growth of the Russian economy.