26 Jun 2025

Strong Contribution from Our University to the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Ecosystem

Our university took an active role in a high-level meeting held in Istanbul focused on technology transfer, university-industry collaboration, and the development of national innovation policies. Representing Istanbul Gedik University at the meeting was Dr. Engin Açıkalın, TTO Coordinator and faculty member of the Department of Materials Science and Nanotechnology Engineering.

Key topics discussed at the meeting included various revenue-sharing models in academic consultancy processes, current regulations related to the Technology Development Zones Index, and support programs offered by İSTKA (Istanbul Development Agency) and industry clusters. It was decided to apply to İSTKA with joint project proposals and to organize a visit to the institution with a delegation formed for this purpose.

Additionally, a new structural model was proposed based on the Terminal Istanbul framework, which would enable all technoparks to collaborate. Cooperation with the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (İSO) during application processes was also agreed upon.

One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the decision to submit a joint letter, signed with a common logo and endorsement of all Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) and TEKMERs, to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office outlining the challenges faced and proposed solutions. Furthermore, a Policy Group consisting of multiple universities will be established to oversee this process.

As part of the action plan:

  • A participant delegation will be formed for the İSTKA and İSO visits,

  • A position paper will be prepared for submission to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office,

  • Subcommittees and writing groups will be created to support project development processes.

With the valuable participation of Dr. Engin Açıkalın, our university continues to play an influential role at both regional and national levels in entrepreneurship, technology development, and integration with industry.