IIID and Khajeh Nasir University Launch a New Collaboration

A three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Iran International Innovation District (IIID) and Khajeh Nasir Toosi University of Technology. Aimed at expanding scientific, research, educational, and technological interactions, the agreement establishes a joint executive task force to forge a new path for synergy between academia and the country's innovation ecosystem.

In line with macro-policies for developing a knowledge-based economy and leveraging the shared capacities of the university and Pardis Technology Park, an agreement was concluded between the Iran International Innovation District (IIID) and Khajeh Nasir Toosi University of Technology.

Signed by Mehdi Safarinia, President of Pardis Technology Park, and Hamidreza Taghirad, President of Khajeh Nasir Toosi University of Technology, this MoU focuses on developing technological collaborations, facilitating the growth path for startups, and expanding national and international partnerships.

A core pillar of this cooperation is supporting the transition of tech companies based in the university's incubator centers to the PTP, enabling them to benefit from legal advantages and support. This initiative aims to strengthen the link between academia, industry, and the market, thereby smoothing the path for commercializing scientific achievements.

According to the MoU's provisions, the university will act as the scientific arm of IIID, playing a role in national and international programs and events. This includes participation in acceleration programs, techmarts, technology camps, and prominent events such as the Mustafa Prize (PBUH).

Developing joint projects in emerging fields is another key aspect of this agreement. Cooperation in artificial intelligence, data mining, financial data analysis, implementing joint research projects, and defining technology-driven plans based on the country's industrial needs will form part of the operational agenda for both parties.

Furthermore, the agreement addresses the establishment of a branch for a foreign university within IIID. This initiative is expected to contribute to the internationalization of scientific and technological activities and attract cross-border collaborations.

Other areas of cooperation include creating a dedicated university tech space within the district's development phases, supporting the establishment of university infrastructure—including married student housing in the Pardis county area—and expanding educational and research support services.

This three-year MoU has defined specific implementation phases, with its performance subject to annual review. A joint task force will be formed between the two entities to follow up on the implementation of the agreement's provisions, holding monthly meetings.

The signing of this MoU can be seen as a strategic step towards synergizing the country's scientific and technological capabilities and strengthening the link between university and industry within Iran's innovation ecosystem. This path is ultimately expected to lead to greater added value and the sustainable development of the knowledge-based economy.