The specialized roundtable on venture capital was held on Sunday, December 10, 2024, at the headquarters of the Nanotechnology Development Headquarters, with the participation of CEOs and investment managers from member firms of the National Venture Capital Association.
The session was aimed at discussing the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for enhancing the country’s venture capital ecosystem. Key areas of focus included professional knowledge exchange, operational issue analysis, and networking among leading industry players, drawing strong engagement from stakeholders in the innovative investment sector.
During the roundtable, four main topics were addressed:
- Assessment of VC Challenges and Opportunities: Key challenges identified included legal barriers, weak financial infrastructure, lack of effective incentives for venture investors, and insufficient reliable data. On the opportunity side, participants highlighted the market potential of emerging technologies, increased activity from knowledge-based companies, and growing demand for innovation in major industries.
- Strategies to Improve Efficiency and Expand Investment Units: Recommendations included diversifying financial instruments, developing specialized funds, and introducing tax incentives for corporate venture capital (CVC) investors. The need to revise portfolio evaluation and management processes was also emphasized.
- Policy and Procedural Recommendations: Participants proposed reforms to streamline administrative procedures, enhance regulatory engagement, and improve the legal framework for venture capital. Suggestions focused on expediting evaluation processes, facilitating investor exits, and standardizing transparent contracts.
- Networking and Information Exchange: The roundtable created a platform for inter-company collaboration and data sharing among association members. Future initiatives will include the formation of a shared information database, establishment of expert advisory circles, and development of joint programs across member firms.
During the open discussion segment, several executives and experts shared their insights and suggestions.
Mr. Sadri, CEO of BarsamTech Holding, emphasized the need to strengthen networking within the association and to harness capable talent for impactful operations.
Sajjad Neiri, Chairman of the Board of the National Venture Capital Association, underscored the importance of strategic positioning of firms in the innovation ecosystem and regarded the role of expert committees as critical in resolving operational issues.
Faezeh Sajadian, Investment Director at TechnoTejarat, highlighted the transfer of experience between VC and CVC players as a key driver for sectoral performance and growth.
Mr. Azami, researcher at the Technology and Knowledge-Based Industries Division of the Parliament Research Center, stressed the importance of connecting technology stakeholders with policymakers and endorsed a review of macro-level policy strategies.
In conclusion, the session affirmed that advancing the national venture capital landscape requires structural reforms, smart incentive mechanisms, and deeper collaboration among innovation ecosystem actors. The National Venture Capital Association continues to play a strategic and facilitative role, aiming to document operational challenges, support policy development, and design innovative financing instruments. The continuation of such sessions will serve as a foundation for greater coherence, enhanced professional capacity, and the formation of more impactful institutions in the innovation ecosystem.
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