Formation of Emerging Technological Innovation System in Iran; Case of Nanotechnology Sector

The main objective of this research is providing a model for the formation of emerging Iranian Nanotechnology sector using the functional approach of Technological Innovation System (TIS) concept. Both qualitative and quantitative research has been used in this paper. First based on analysis of policy documents، expert opinions and interviews with officials the historical development of formation of functions in Nanotechnology sector has been charted by historical data mapping method. Second، based on the results of questionnaire-based survey (from activists in the sector) and using factor analysis method، functions and activities of conceptual model were confirmed and then using structural equation modeling، the causal relationships between different functions were mapped. Results of this research showing that government has a key role through influencing the functions such as guidance of research and innovation، supply and allocation of resources and institution building and legalization، then these drivers could be collectively referred as the ‘motor of Government''s pressure and support’.