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.

Ortakoy Mosque - Startup Istanbul

Grand Imperial Mosque (Buyuk Mecidiye Camii) which is known as Ortakoy Mosque, is a very famous architecture on the Bosphorus. It was built in the 18th Century during the time of Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid. It was built in the Neo-Baroque style, by the Armenian architects Garabet Amira Balyan and Nigogayos Balyan. [!

[ortakoy_small](/uploads/2014/07/ortakoy_small. jpg)](/uploads/2014/07/ortakoy_small. jpg/)

It is located in Ortakoy where you may find small shops for silver jewellry and natural stones. Also Ortakoy is the best place for a special Turkish food called Kumpir (Baked potato).

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