This article explores the concept of creative potential of youth as an important psycho-social category that encompasses a combination of abilities, attitudes, and personal qualities aimed at generating new, original, and socially significant outcomes. Special attention is given to the relationship between the concepts of creativity and creative potential. The author emphasizes that although these notions are closely interconnected, they are not identical: while creativity represents an actualized process, creative potential is an internal capability – a readiness for creative activity that may remain dormant without appropriate conditions for its realization. The article examines the diff erences and similarities between these two concepts and highlights their role in shaping active, initiative-driven, and innovative youth. It is stressed that the development of creative potential not only contributes to the personal growth of young individuals but also has a direct impact on the social and cultural progress of society as a whole, forming part of the nation’s intellectual and innovative capital. The author provides a detailed analysis of external and internal factors infl uencing the development of creative potential, such as the educational environment, family and social support, access to cultural practices, motivation, creative thinking, and individual personality traits. The necessary conditions for the successful realization of creative abilities among youth are also outlined.