Sharif’s HATEF Program Delivers Over 30 Products

More than 30 projects supported by Sharif University of Technology’s HATEF technology-development funding program have reached the finished-product stage, according to Behnam Talebi, head of the Sharif University’s Science and Technology Park.

Speaking to reporters at an exhibition showcasing the program’s achievements, Talebi said the initiative began approximately two years ago in cooperation with Iran’s Vice Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy. The program received more than 150 proposals following its call for applications. Around 52 were selected after evaluation, and more than 30 have since developed into finished products. The resulting companies are now based at the park’s incubator.

Talebi said the exhibition aims to connect technology developers directly with investors and prospective customers, creating opportunities for future business partnerships. He added that the program demonstrates university faculty members’ capacity to develop technology-based products and services when appropriate support is available. With further development, the resulting businesses could expand into domestic and international markets. During incubation, companies receive workspace, financial assistance and other support to help them become sustainable businesses. Support continues beyond incubation through park membership benefits, applicable exemptions, access to its company network and participation in commercialization events. Talebi expressed hope that further rounds of HATEF would be implemented in cooperation with the vice presidency.