The Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (IHKIB) and Bilişim Vadisi, the Turkish Technology Development Center, have closed a cooperation that is intended to strengthen the competitiveness of the Turkish clothing industry in the global markets. The focus of the cooperation is primarily key topics such as digitization, sustainability, circular economy and innovation.
“We are among the leading nations in clothing production worldwide,” emphasized IHKIB Vice President Mustafa Paşahan as part of the signing. “Thanks to our high quality, flexibility and geographical location, we already meet European standards in areas such as recycling, carbon dioxide reduction and social responsibility.”
Together, IHKIB and Bilişim Vadisi want to use both national and international support programs to promote practical projects and cluster initiatives about digital solutions, sustainable production methods and creative industries. Not only should companies benefit and start-ups from the area of Bilişim Vadisi should gain access to new markets and know-how through partnerships with IHKIB members.
A central goal of the cooperation is also to expand existing strengths through targeted innovation projects. Paşahan refers to the successful use of EU funding via the instrument for the management aid (IPA), a program of the European Union that supports the candidate for accession financially and technically. “So far, we have been able to secure 37 million euros via IPA alone.” This year, the project for CO₂ footprint recording and reduction is scheduled to start, which is also financed by EU funds.
With Bilişim Vadisi, Ihkib has now also a strategic partner at his side that combines technological innovative strength with creative start -up scene.
“Today, future technologies in the textile industry are not only created in large companies, but increasingly through visionary start-ups,” said Erkam Tüzgen, General Manager of Bilişim Vadisi. “We create an ecosystem that brings young talents, designers: inside and developers: Interior, with direct connection to industry.”