Overseas Iranians
The Global Diaspora Talent Hub: Reversing the Brain Drain at the IIID
Under a landmark Cabinet resolution, the Iran International Innovation District (IIID) has been officially designated as the nation’s premier hub for attracting and integrating non-resident Iranian experts and global tech talent. Recognizing that human capital is the ultimate driver of the Innovation Ecosystem, the district has established a seamless, fast-track onboarding pipeline in strategic partnership with the Organization for International Science and Technology Interactions (OISTI).
In 2021, Pardis Technology Park (PTP) was recognized as the top national host for Iranian diaspora entrepreneurs. Today, dozens of elite specialists from over 10 countries have successfully relocated, launched ventures, and scaled their technologies within the district. Notably, the regulatory framework explicitly permits the employment of Iranian professors holding dual citizenship, removing traditional bureaucratic barriers.
Diaspora Success Stories: From Global Labs to Local Impact
The district has successfully catalyzed high-impact joint ventures and tech transfers, bridging world-class academic research with domestic commercialization:
- EPFL (Switzerland): Optic Niroo Technology Development – Pioneering photovoltaic solar panels, advanced electronics, and photonics. ZN* University of Düsseldorf (Germany): Pishgaman Pajouhesh Anahita (Led by Mohammad PourSamar) – Advancing personalized oncology, advanced cell culture models, and tissue engineering.
- University of Calgary (Canada): Beinab Sanjesh Damavand (Led by Mojtaba Rezaei) – Developing cutting-edge laser gas analysis sensors.
- KU Leuven (Belgium): Fan-Avaran Ettela'at Pezeshki Navid Simorgh (Led by Amin Ardeshir Davai) – Leveraging genetic data analysis for targeted cancer treatments.
- UPM (Malaysia): Sabz Palayesh Satrap (Led by Ahmad Salibili) – Innovating slow-release crystal production for advanced agricultural urea coatings.
Comprehensive Support Ecosystem for Returning Innovators
To ensure a frictionless transition, the IIID offers a bespoke suite of privileges for non-resident specialists, prioritizing them across all operational tiers:
- Fast-Track Onboarding & Infrastructure: Immediate allocation of Co-Working Spaces (e.g., Co-Up) or rapid admission into the Elite Technology Development Center, alongside priority access to leased or owned land parcels with special financial facilities for construction.
- Capital & Market Access: Dedicated matchmaking for venture capital, marketing support, and priority allocation of exhibition space at the INOTEX Exhibition, including dedicated pavilions and speaking roles in high-level tech panels.
- Ecosystem Integration: Priority placement for employment within resident tech firms, support for company registration, and active inclusion in the district’s strategic think tanks and innovation stages.
Contact the Diaspora Talent Hub
📞 Phone: +98 21 76250250 (Ext. 2131, Mr. Aslani)
🌐 Registration Portal: connect.isti.ir