10bn-rial technology grant awarded to four Iranian women at BRICS event

Khadijeh Joda, an Advisor on Women’s Affairs to the Vice President for Science and Technology, announced a one-billion-toman technology grant for four women leaders recognized at the BRICS Women’s Awards. 

She stated, “This initiative supports women-led innovation. The winners, selected from 22 participating companies in Russia, will receive this grant, which becomes non-repayable if specific targets are met by next year.”

Highlighting the “Women as Drivers of Innovation and Technology” exhibition during Women’s Week, Joda noted it showcased achievements of 52 women-led knowledge-based companies excelling in exports and innovation. 

Despite women comprising 64% of university entrants, only 10-12% of knowledge-based companies are managed by women, revealing a significant gap requiring urgent attention, she added.

Awardees included Azam Karami, Marzieh Ebrahimi, Fatemeh Hosseini, and Mahvash Abyari. The event was attended by senior officials, including Vice President Hossein Afshin and women’s affairs representatives.

Joda stressed the importance of reducing gender disparities in innovation, expressing hope that these initiatives would empower women in technology and foster sustainable progress in the nation’s innovation ecosystem.