The article reviews the possibility of application of the intellectual capital concept for the purpose of complex diagnostics of the existing business units' potentials and their effective management. One possible classification of intellectual capital elements is given. The article describes possibilities for application of this concept both within an individual company and by the network entities while evaluating their aggregated potential. The list of requirements to formation and management of intellectual capital from the perspective of the compatibility theory is given. Possibilities for application of the balanced indicators system for the simplified diagnostics of intellectual capital elements are reviewed. The impact of the intellectual capital accounting and management processes in business unites on the condition and the structure of the regional and national economy is indicated. During the discussion in the article, it is suggested to prove the necessity and expediency of intellectual capital management for evaluation and realization of business units' existing development potentials. The article's content may be used for working out a development strategy of business units in the modern economic conditions. It will allow to use the existing potential of companies in a more effective manner and to evaluate possibilities of their collaboration with other business units for the purpose of innovative development. Results shown in the article may be useful for managers and employees of innovative companies, entrepreneurs, representatives of professional educational institutions as well as for all interested in innovative management matters and innovative development issues.