Government Pledges Support for Women’s Sports Innovation at National Event

The first national event supporting innovative projects and ideas in women’s sports took place today, January 25, 2024 (5 Dey 1402), at Eivan-e Shams, Tehran, with participation from government officials, academics, and sports professionals. Dr. Seyed Vahid Saadat, Deputy for Investment, Culture, and Social Affairs at the Vice Presidency for Rural Development and Deprived Areas, emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women in sports, particularly in rural communities. He highlighted the historical role of women in rural economies, where they have traditionally been at the center of household income generation and social development. Bridging Traditional Rural Roles with Modern Sports Development Dr. Saadat pointed out that rural employment models have long been centered around women, with work beginning at home and extending to agriculture and beyond. He suggested that elements of rural cultural structures could inform urban development policies, particularly in the social and economic empowerment of women.

He also outlined efforts by various governmental bodies, including:

• The Rural and Nomadic Women’s Office at the Ministry of Agriculture

• The Women’s Affairs Office at the Ministry of Interior and provincial administrations • The Cultural and Social Affairs Department, led by Dr. Mehrnik These entities are actively collaborating to enhance women’s social participation and economic empowerment through initiatives that align with traditional family-based models.

Government’s Financial and Institutional Support for Women’s Sports Innovations Dr. Saadat invited women entrepreneurs and innovators in sports to present their ideas, assuring them that the Vice Presidency for Rural Development is ready to facilitate the transformation of viable proposals into official policies and funding programs through the Supreme Council of Jihad Sazandegi.

He also confirmed that financial backing could be provided through government-affiliated funds, such as the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund, which directly cooperates with his office.

Access to More Information For further details on government support mechanisms, Dr. Saadat encouraged innovators to visit the official platforms of the Vice Presidency for Rural Development and review policy documents available online.

This event was co-organized by:

• The National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Headquarters for Women’s Sports

• The Vice Presidency for Women and Family Affairs