National Labor Conference

Crowdfunding, as a new way to attract micro-capital, plays a significant role in sustainable development and job creation. This study analyzes the opportunities and barriers of crowdfunding in Iran by looking at successful global models such as Grameen Bank, Kickstarter, and M-KOPA. Iran has a suitable platform for this method with high solar radiation, young human resources, and local cooperatives [27,30]. However, legal, cultural, economic, and infrastructural barriers hinder progress [11]. The Over-the-Counter (OTC) has issued guidelines to monitor local platforms that have raised significant funds for innovative projects [34]. This study, using a comparative analysis method, adapts successful models to Iranian conditions and shows that modeling M-KOPA for solar energy and SEWA for women's empowerment can boost employment and production [14,15]. Proposed solutions include the development of transparent regulations similar to the US JOBS, the development of indigenous digital platforms, public education, the integration of cooperatives, and tax incentives [17]. By removing barriers, crowdfunding can contribute to poverty reduction, the expansion of renewable energy, and sustainable development in Iran, especially in rural areas with high potential for cooperatives and solar energy [4,32].