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.

Bookme.pk Raises Six Figure Investment With $4 Million Valuation

The Pakistani startup [Bookme](https://bookme. pk/index. php? /) once again proved that their platform is not just like any other website where you can buy your bus or cinema tickets.

Key Insights

The company has received a six figure funding with $4 million valuation from Element Ventures, which proves once again the potential of Bookme. As part of the current events, Bookme. pk also announced the appointment of Mr. Faisal Sherjan as its director.

Further Perspectives

Bookme is founded by Faizan Aslam, CEO of Macro Pak Solutions, in Lahore, Pakistan. Bookme aims to become online booking destination for Pakistanis. It is a new way of buying tickets for the events in Pakistan.

With this app, you can get all the information of the happenings within the country, up coming events, transport and cinema ticketing. Bookme started at small scale, but Faizan Aslan has said that with the received investment the company is planning to expand their services to other cities in Pakistan.

Looking Ahead

Bookme was also one of the selected startups for mentorship and training program at **Startup Istanbul 2014 Event. ** Faizan Aslan also joined Startup Turkey 2015 event. You can see his presentation at the event [startup turkey 2015 bookme pk on startupist.

com](http://www. startupist. com/2015/04/04/startup-turkey-2015-bookme-pk/) and a special interview for Etohum in the videos below.

Key Insights

Further Perspectives

Looking Ahead

Stay Updated