PLAN OF ACTION
OF THE BSEC WORKING GROUP
ON COOPERATION IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1 July 2023 - 30 June 2024
Country-Coordinator: Türkiye
As the country coordinator of Working Group on Cooperation in Science and Technology from 1 July 2023 until 30 June 2024, Türkiye will focus on the theme “Innovative Technological Entrepreneurship: The Role of Start-Ups” during its tenure. This Plan of Action outlines the objectives, rationale, and proposed activities to be undertaken.
Rationale
Fostering innovation, supporting start-ups, and creating an environment conducive to technological advancement are essential pillars for sustainable economic growth and global competitiveness. We envision a future where BSEC members become an attractive destination for technology startups, attracting international attention and investment, and contributing significantly to technological advancement on a global scale. By empowering entrepreneurs and fostering collaboration, we can position ourselves as a dynamic force in the technology industry, leading the way to a prosperous and sustainable future.
Entrepreneurial growth through innovative technologies has the potential to contribute significantly to overall economic growth in all BSEC member states, increasing employment and productivity through the development of new products and services. A regional entrepreneurship ecosystem that enables the development of skilled human resources, promotes entrepreneurship and increases financing opportunities is crucial for all businesses, including start-ups. It could also prove to be an invaluable tool for BSEC members in addressing global challenges.
To succeed in the fast-paced world of technology, our aspiring entrepreneurs need access to cutting-edge knowledge, mentorship and support. By equipping our entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and insights, we can cultivate a generation of tech leaders capable of driving disruptive innovation and building scalable businesses. Fostering an enabling environment with the necessary tools, such as Technoparks and Organized Industrial Zones, plays a pivotal role and serves as a fertile ground for innovation, providing startups with infrastructure, resources, and networking opportunities.
The primary objectives in this area are as follows:
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To encourage the creation, development and growth of technology start-ups and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the BSEC member countries.
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To foster cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange among start-ups, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders, including relevant national authorities, within the BSEC region.
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To promote the utilization of technology and innovation as drivers of economic growth and regional integration.
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To support the creation of an enabling environment for start-ups through policy reforms, capacity building, and access to necessary tools.
With this vision and goals in mind, we propose a series of events that will encourage collaboration and foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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October 13, 2023
Physical
(BSEC Headquarters in İstanbul)
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Working Group Meeting
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Objective: Evaluate progress, address challenges, and plan for the next quarter.
Agenda:
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November 3, 2023
Hybrid
(Hybrid workshop with in-person field trip)
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Workshop on Technoparks and Organized Industrial Zones
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Objective: Explore the concept of Technoparks and Organized Industrial Zones and their role in fostering innovation.
Agenda:
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Case studies of successful Technoparks & OIZs around BSEC
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Discussion on the benefits and challenges of establishing Technoparks & OIZs
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Exploring potential collaborations and partnerships with existing Technoparks & OIZs
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Field trip in Technopark Ankara and Başkent OIZ (invitation of Ankara-based delegations of BSEC member countries)
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December 14, 2023
Virtual
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Workshop on Tech Entrepreneurship
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Objective: Enhance knowledge and skills in tech entrepreneurship.
Agenda:
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March 2024 (tbc)
Hybrid
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Working Group Meeting
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Objective: Evaluate progress and address challenges.
Agenda:
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Recap of the year’s achievements and challenges
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Evaluation of project outcomes and impact
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Lessons learned and best practices shared among team members
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Setting new goals and objectives for the upcoming year
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June 2024 (tbc)
Physical
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Innovation Summit (possible cooperation with EUREKA-tbc)
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Objective: Explore avenues for collaboration and foster discussions on exploring innovation trends.
Agenda:
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Organize a regional start-up innovation summit that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and experts
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Showcase innovative start-up solutions
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