Technology Parks Are the Driving Force of the Knowledge-Based Economy: IIID Official

During the 23rd Annual Summit and Innovation Excellence Festival of the (IIID) Iran International Innovation District, Mehdi Saffarinia, head of Pardis Technology Park (PTP), stressed the strategic role of technology parks in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and boosting Iran’s knowledge-based economy, calling for stronger government support and a more dynamic innovation ecosystem.

Saffarinia emphasized that globally, technology parks are established to identify and nurture talent, create employment opportunities, and facilitate the commercialization of advanced technologies. Acting as a bridge between academia and industry, they provide access to extensive networks and attract both domestic and foreign investment.

He noted that the Iranian government expects technology parks to create wealth and contribute to sustainable economic growth, but achieving this requires skilled human capital and a well-functioning innovation ecosystem.

According to Saffarinia, technology-based companies in Iran need reliable infrastructure in addition to government efforts to expand markets and remove administrative barriers. He urged companies to view challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to explore new markets, develop innovative products, generate employment, and inspire young talent.

Addressing current challenges, he pointed to sudden regulatory shifts — such as the cancellation of municipal tax exemptions — and insufficient infrastructure, which hinder the growth of resident companies despite high demand for space and facilities.

Highlighting recent advances, Saffarinia stated that the PTP has evolved into an international innovation hub, launching initiatives in aerospace and academic collaborations. In 2024, member companies of IIID achieved sales exceeding 900 trillion Iranian rials, marking a significant economic contribution yet still falling short of the nation’s full potential.

He concluded that becoming a hub for emerging technologies, including microelectronics, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space technologies, requires close cooperation between government and the private sector, along with the attraction of stronger companies and more effective state support to boost sales, investment, and international market presence.