The first meeting of the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) Funds Development Commission was held with the participation of senior executives, representatives from non-governmental research and technology funds, and board members of the National Association of Venture Capital (Iran). This meeting held particular significance due to its focus on the development of corporate venture capital funds, which play a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s innovation and technology ecosystem.
The session was attended by senior representatives and managers of various corporate VC funds, including:
- Seyed Mohammad Hossein Sajjadi Neyri – Chairman of the Board, National Association of Venture Capital
- Abbasali Karshenas – Secretary, National Association of Venture Capital
- Yahya Palizdar – Representative, Non-Governmental Research and Technology Fund of Mobarakeh Steel Company CVC
- Alireza Daliri – Representative, Non-Governmental Research and Technology Fund of AryoGen CVC
- Amir Alhaji – Representative, Non-Governmental Research and Technology Fund of Entekhab Innovative Investors (Snowa) CVC
- Mohsen Karaminia – Representative, Non-Governmental Research and Technology Fund of Central Iron Ore Company and Affiliated Industries CVC
- Amin Esfandiar – Representative, Non-Governmental Research and Technology Fund of First Entrepreneurs CVC
The key topics of discussion during the session included a review and exchange of views on the major activity areas of the Commission for the Development of Corporate Venture Capital Funds. The main discussion points were:
- Advocacy and follow-up on sector-specific issues related to corporate VC funds
- Pursuing implementation of the capacities provided by the “Knowledge-Based Production Leap Act”
- Structural reform and enhancement of the regulatory frameworks and policies governing CVC funds
- Designing and developing co-investment mechanisms among commission members
Additionally, successful experiences of several corporate VC funds present at the meeting were shared, including case studies on interactions with parent companies, investment processes, and project evaluation procedures.
Challenges such as engagement with regulatory authorities, existing regulatory constraints, and the need to redesign certain legal requirements were also discussed. Furthermore, proposals were put forward to strengthen synergy between corporate VC funds and universities, science and technology parks, and innovation centers.
This session marked the beginning of efforts to align corporate VC funds and improve mutual cooperation. The participants unanimously agreed that the regular continuation of such meetings would enhance interaction, facilitate experience-sharing, and provide a suitable platform for addressing industry-related issues and advancing the Commission’s objectives. As a result, it was decided that the Commission’s meetings will be held on a monthly or quarterly basis to ensure continuous monitoring and improvement of activities. These meetings will also serve as an effective venue for raising challenges and proposing practical solutions, playing an essential role in improving policy-making and developing implementation mechanisms.
No comment