Introduction

The Incubator Technology Center of the University of Tehran is supervised by professionals who prepare the infrastructure for the establishment and growth of fledgling technology institutes with economic orientations through the provision of ongoing and accessible support services and required consultation. Furthermore, this center supports fledgling firms and entrepreneurial teams for the successful execution of ideas, innovations, and competition in domestic and international arenas. Establishment in the Incubator Center helps fledgling enterprises not only to consummate their investment, reduce the initial risks of utilization, and decrease the utilization capital, but to develop a basic business plan, and knowledge and system management. Also, through access to information and necessary counseling, value-added services and equipment and the utilization of economic opportunities, group-work motivation, and enhancement and competition among different groups fledgling firms will benefit a great deal.
Incubator centers and science and technology parks function as a bridge between universities and firms; and many countries—via the creation of such centers—strive to bridge the gap between the industry and the university and, as a consequence, improve employment and social well-being. Accordingly, the Incubator Center functions as a key factor in technology development, being capable of converting knowledge and research to wealth and economic growth. In effect, facilitating the growth and development of member firms is the main purpose of an incubator center.
The Incubator Technology Center of the University of Tehran was founded in 2004 after obtaining the license of the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology; and with its official activities in 2005 started accepting technology firms which were based on the knowledge-oriented economy.
The activity fields of technology units in the Incubator Center are nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, scientific and engineering (chemistry of oil and drilling), agriculture, the humanities, and management.