Evaluating the performance of innovation accelerators in Iran; Survey based on logical model approach

Developing a knowledge-based economy requires an ecosystem that provides the necessary platform for the growth and development of technological and innovative activities and businesses. One of the key players in this ecosystem in recent years is the "accelerator", which plays a central role in supporting and accelerating the growth of startups. Despite the rapid growth of these institutions in Iran's innovation ecosystem, it seems necessary to evaluate their performance and diagnose their strengths and weaknesses. Performance evaluations allow accelerators, policymakers, and other custodians of this field to gain a better understanding of needs and challenges and improve their work process accordingly.

This research is practical and employs descriptive and survey-based data collection. The logical model evaluates accelerators' performance based on four main components: inputs, activities, outputs, and consequences, as well as two categories of hard and soft environmental factors. Data for this study was collected by distributing a questionnaire among 29 accelerators and analyzing it using descriptive statistical methods.

The results indicate that although a relatively favorable situation has been reported in some indicators related to inputs, activities, and outputs, there are concerns regarding other output indicators and, especially, outcomes. This includes the number of successful exits, the private sector, and venture capital funds, as well as the number of defined plans to address the problems of industries, government organizations, and social and regional challenges. Overall, performance in these areas is not satisfactory. Additionally, accelerators face serious challenges related to environmental factors, particularly laws, infrastructure, and access to financial resources.

Based on these findings, policy and management solutions have been proposed to improve the performance of accelerators, optimize processes, and strengthen their role. This includes a focus on establishing accelerators with a specialized, problem-oriented, and corporate approach within Iran's innovation ecosystem.