Empowering the next generation: Cultivating entrepreneurial ecosystems for global youth

This paper examines the role of Science and Technology Parks (STPs) and Areas of Innovation (AOIs) in 

the entrepreneurial ecosystem for youth during a rising global demographic. It argues for directing the 

youth towards entrepreneurship and employs İstanbul Technical University’s incubation centre İTÜ 

Çekirdek, recognised as the world’s best incubation centre in 2023, as a case study to demonstrate how 

such structures can support innovation, provide resources and contribute to national prosperity. It further 

explores İTÜ Çekirdek's collaboration models, which stimulate knowledge sharing between STPs, public 

institutions, and associations across various sectors, addressing employment challenges, enhancing 

income and promoting sustainable business practices. It ends by emphasising the importance of such 

ecosystems in empowering the next generation to contribute to society and the global economy