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.

The Ultimate Reading List: 50 Must-Read Books for Entrepreneurs

Successful entrepreneurs have many things in common and one of these things is the need to constantly improve their skills set and knowledge. Reading has special part in the life of every entrepreneur, regardless of the stage of development of their startups. Here you can find a list of 50 must-read books that will help every entrepreneur with their startup journey.

The Effective Executive by Peter F. Drucker

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Business Adventures by John Brooks

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

Reality Check by Guy Kawasaki

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Mastering the Dynamics of Innovation by James M. Utterback

Rework by Jason Fried

Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh

Innovation and Entrepreneurship by Peter F. Drucker

Screw Business as Usual by Richard Branson

The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen

The Startup Owner’s Manual by Steve Blank and Bob Dorf

The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber

The Startup of You: Adapt to the Future, Invest in Yourself, and Transform Your Career by Reid Hoffman

The Pumpkin Plan: A Simple Strategy to Grow a Remarkable Business in Any Field by Mike Michalowicz

The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell

Founders at Work by Jessica Livingston

Growing Great Employees: Turning Ordinary People into Extraordinary Performers by Erika Andersen

Financial Intelligence for Entrepreneurs: What You Really Need to Know About the Numbers by Karen Berman

The Entrepreneur Mind by Kevin D. Johnson

The Brand Called You by Peter Montoya

Influence: Science and Practice by Robert B. Cialdini

Uncommon Genius: How Great Ideas are Born by Denise Shekerjian

UnMarketing by Scott Stratten

Your Marketing Sucks by Mark Stevens

Book Yourself Solid by Michael Port

Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder

Poke the Box by Seth Godin

Click Millionaires by Scott Fox

Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore

The Four Steps to Epiphany by Steve Blank

The Startup Game by William H. Draper

The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future by Chris Guillebeau