The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK) has announced the results of its 2023 first call under the Technology and Innovation Support Programs Presidency (TEYDEB) 1501 Industrial R&D Projects Support Program. Among the 455 supported projects is an initiative led by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Balkaya, a faculty member of the Department of Horticulture at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU).

The project, executed under the University-Industry Collaboration framework with Büşra Yapıcı, an Agricultural Engineer and executive at Petektar Seed Company, aims to develop low-temperature tolerant and biotic stress-resistant local hybrid squash rootstock candidates suitable for grafted cucumber seedling production. This endeavor represents a significant stride towards reducing Turkey's reliance on imported rootstocks for grafted seedling production.

Upon completion, this project, conducted in collaboration with a domestic company, will mark a significant step in developing hybrid rootstocks for grafted cucumbers. It is a notable example of the potential advancements achievable through University-Industry partnerships.

The program also focuses on encouraging Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) to engage in R&D and innovation activities. It aims to enhance their R&D capacities and increase localization in necessary technology sectors.