What is Startup Istanbul?

Startup Istanbul is a startup ecosystem platform connecting founders, investors, and operators — built around discovery, connections, and founder-focused support.

Are you currently organizing events?

Startup Istanbul is best known for major in-person ecosystem events in earlier years. No new events are currently scheduled. Future editions may return and will be announced when ready.

How can I apply with my startup?

You can apply through the application form on the website. Applications are open, but the process is selective — we don't run a rigid cohort. If there's a fit, we follow up for deeper evaluation.

What is StartupIst Ventures Fund I?

StartupIst Ventures Fund I is an early-stage investment fund that invests globally, sector-agnostic, typically writing $50K–$200K tickets. We often co-invest alongside other VCs/investors and prioritize strong founders.

Etohum is a founder-first platform in Türkiye, founded in 2008. It is the broader organization behind Startup Istanbul (especially in its earlier event years).

Who is Burak Büyükdemir?

Burak Büyükdemir is the founder of Etohum and Startup Istanbul, and the founder of StartupIst Ventures Fund I (global early-stage investing).

How do you work with founders today?

We keep applications open for discovery, but we work with founders in a more selective way: open applications, selective depth, founder-specific support, often 1-on-1, and focused on real progress — not a demo-day calendar.

Do you offer sponsorship or partnership opportunities?

Yes. For sponsorships, partnerships, or co-investing inquiries, please contact us via email at startupistanbul.com/contact.

Airports - Startup Istanbul

Key Insights

There are two airports in Istanbul: Ataturk Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Ataturk Airport is on the European Side. Most of the international flights arrive this airport.

Further Perspectives

You can get on the airport bus to go to Taksim. To read more,[ follow this link](http://blog. startupistanbul.

Looking Ahead

com/2014/07/22/gettaksim/%20), and also see [the airport’s web site. ](http://www. ataturkairport.

com/en-EN/Transportation/Pages/AirportTrasnportation. aspx) Sabiha Gokcen Airport is on the Anatolian Side. There is an airport bus to Kadikoy, and another one to Taksim.

](http://www. sabihagokcen. aero/passengers-and-visitors/transport-and-parking/transportation/havatas-en) There also [public buses](http://www.

sabihagokcen. aero/passengers-and-visitors/transport-and-parking/transportation/public-bus) to go many places from this airport.

Key Insights

Further Perspectives

Looking Ahead

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