What is a technopark? Benefits for startups in Türkiye
How technology development zones work, what support and advantages they offer startups, who can apply and what to include in your application.
By Editorial Team
Many technology startups in Türkiye begin their journey inside a technopark, officially a technology development zone. Technoparks are usually set up together with universities and offer R&D companies both physical space and advantages that come from legislation.
What is a technopark?
Technoparks are zones established under Law No. 4691 on Technology Development Zones and supervised by the Ministry of Industry and Technology. Their aim is to bring universities, research institutions and industry together to support software and R&D. Almost every major Turkish city now has at least one.
Benefits for startups
Tax and social-security advantages
The legislation provides certain tax exemptions for income from software and R&D carried out in a technopark, and for the salaries of staff working on those projects, together with social-security premium support. The scope and duration are updated from time to time, so check the current rules with the technopark management and an accountant before applying.
Incubation centre and affordable offices
Many technoparks run an incubation centre for early-stage startups, where space may be free or low-cost for a period. We explain the difference between incubators and accelerators in this guide.
University and industry links
Joint projects with academics, access to labs and collaboration with neighbouring companies are among a technopark's most valuable features.
Mentoring, training and investor events
Technology transfer offices help with patents, grant applications and business development, and regularly host investor meetings and demo days.
Who can apply?
- Companies doing software, R&D or design work
- Founders without a company yet (many technoparks accept individuals through pre-incubation)
- Academics and students
The work carried out in the zone is expected to be defined as a project with an innovative element.
Application process
- Check the target technopark's requirements and available space.
- Prepare your proposal: the problem, the innovation, the team, the roadmap and the budget.
- The application is reviewed by management and referees; you may be asked to present.
- Once accepted, you incorporate in the zone or move your address and start the project.
- You report progress periodically.
Application tips
- Explain the innovative element concretely; a copy of a standard product may not qualify.
- Show the team's technical strength.
- Keep the timeline realistic.
- Think about combining it with programmes such as TÜBİTAK or KOSGEB; technopark acceptance can help some applications.
Conclusion
Technoparks are a strong starting point, especially for software and hardware startups, cutting costs and opening the door to the ecosystem. Follow open calls and programmes on our opportunities page.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal, financial or investment advice. Check official sources and consult professionals for current terms.
