7.4.5. Assistance to Low-Carbon Innovation
Through the Technology Development Center (İGÜ TEKMER), Istanbul Gelisim University provides comprehensive support to ventures operating in the fields of the low-carbon economy and sustainable technology.İGÜ TEKMER provides a shared working environment for ventures developing innovative solutions at the intersection of biotechnology, electronics, software, robotics and mechatronics. In particular, the development of products that reduce carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency in areas such as healthcare, food, agriculture and environmental technologies is encouraged.
The main incentives and supports provided by İGÜ TEKMER are as follows:
R&D and Design Deduction: In technology center enterprises, 100% of R&D and innovation expenditures are deducted in the determination of institutional and commercial income. Depreciable assets included in R&D and innovation expenditures are also capitalized in accordance with the Tax Procedure Law and amortized through depreciation. In the event that completed R&D and innovation projects are transferred, the amounts capitalized by the enterprises receiving the projects are taken into account as a cost item in determining commercial or institutional income.
Income Tax Withholding Incentive (80–95%): In technology center enterprises, for projects carried out within the scope of R&D and support activities, 95% of the wages of personnel holding a doctoral degree or at least a master's degree in one of the basic sciences, 90% of the wages of personnel with a master's degree or a bachelor's degree in one of the basic sciences, and 80% of the wages of other personnel are exempt from income tax.
Social Security Premium Support (50%): A social security premium support is provided at a rate of 50%.
Stamp Duty Exemption: All types of negotiable instruments issued in relation to R&D and innovation activities covered by the relevant legislation are exempt from stamp duty. Accordingly, no stamp duty is charged on documents issued due to salary payments made to the relevant personnel.
Customs Duty Exemption: Goods imported for use in R&D and innovation projects carried out under the relevant legislation and approved by the Ministry of Industry are exempt from customs duties and all related funds. Documents and transactions issued within this scope are also exempt from stamp duty and fees.
In addition, the infrastructure and services provided to entrepreneurs include:
Equipped laboratories and testing facilities
·Rental offices and flexible working spaces
·Event and seminar organization
·Stakeholder collaborations and access to investors
·Mentoring support and expert guidance
·Opportunities to benefit from the University's qualified workforce
Through these comprehensive support mechanisms, ventures can develop sustainable and low-carbon innovative products such as medical devices, biosensors, smart healthcare applications, robotic solutions, and food and agricultural technologies. İGÜ TEKMER aims to contribute to a low-carbon future by increasing the competitiveness of young entrepreneurs in both national and international markets.