Technology Parks in Turkey

Tax & Social Security Premium Incentives One of the most attractive benefits of operating within a Technopark in Turkey is the range of tax incentives offered. Companies enjoy significant tax breaks, including:

• Income Tax Exemption: One of the significant benefits offered by technoparks is the income tax withholding incentive available to wage earners. The income tax calculated on the wages of R&D, Design, and Support Personnel employed in technoparks is exempted . This incentive applies to various roles such as managers, technical staff, laboratory technicians, secretaries, workers, and other similar personnel involved in R&D or design activities or directly related to these functions.The allowable number of Support Personnel benefiting from this incentive is capped at 10% of the total R&D/Design staff. However, for companies with a total R&D/Design workforce of up to 15 employees, this percentage increases to 20%.
• Stamp Tax Exemption:The wage slips issued for R&D, Design, and Support Personnel working in Technoparks, reflecting the wages they earn specifically for their duties within this region, are exempt from stamp duty .
• Corporate Income Tax Exemption: The income obtained from R&D, Software and Design activities of companies subject to corporate tax operating in technoparks are exempt from corporate tax.
• VAT Exemption: According to the Turkish VAT Law; The delivery of the following services, software and applications produced by companies and entrepreneurs operating in Technoparks are exempt from VAT:
     – System Management,
     – Data Management,
     – Business Applications,
     – Sectoral Applications,
     – Game Applications & Software,
     – Mobile Applications,
     – Military Command Control Application Software                                                               In addition, VAT exemption is applied to technopark companies for “machinery and equipment” purchases. 
• Customs Duty Exemption: Article imported related to R&D, Innovation, Software and Design projects carried out in Technoparks are exempt from customs duty and stamp duty.
• Social Security Premium Support: Half of the employer’s share of the insurance premium calculated on the wages of employees of companies operating in technoparks is within the scope of the insurance premium incentive.
• Employment Supports:Employed in Technopark companies that employ R&D personnel with at least a bachelor’s degree in;

      – Mathematics
      – Physics
      – Chemistry
      – Biology
  or a doctorate in any field, is subject to incentives for a period of 2 years for the monthly wage paid to each of these personnel, equal to the monthly gross amount of the minimum wage applied for that year.

Access to a Skilled Workforce Technoparks are strategically located near universities, allowing companies to collaborate closely with academic institutions. This proximity facilitates the recruitment of highly skilled graduates and researchers, who contribute to the innovative capacity of these businesses.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities The Technopark environment is designed to encourage collaboration between companies, research institutions, and government bodies. Regular networking events, workshops, and seminars provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and partnerships, fostering a culture of innovation.

Funding and Grants Companies operating within Technoparks may be eligible for various funding opportunities, including government grants and incentives. These funds are often aimed at supporting R&D activities, helping businesses to innovate and scale more effectively.

R&D Support Technoparks offer a conducive environment for research and development, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, and research centers. This infrastructure is vital for companies engaged in cutting-edge technological developments.

International Collaboration Many Technoparks in Turkey have established partnerships with international organizations, providing companies with opportunities for global collaboration. This international dimension not only facilitates the exchange of knowledge and technology but also helps Turkish companies to expand into global markets.

Incubation and Acceleration Programs Startups and early-stage companies benefit from incubation and acceleration programs offered within Technoparks. These programs provide mentorship, resources, and strategic guidance, helping startups to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth.