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.

Manage the Work Flow Easier: Five Useful Tools Your Startup Needs in 2016

Square

Square is not only very simple to use and powerful POS system, but is also free. It helps you to track your sales in real time, to manage easily your inventory, to get valuable feedback from your customers and many other super useful insights that are important for the growth of your startup, especially if you are in the retail business.

When I Work

As a startup owner you are probably working with freelancers and out-of-office employees, which can be great if the communication between the team members is smooth. When I Work is awesome tool that will help you to effortlessly plan and organize your next meeting with your hourly employees.

Groove

Your online customers need a reason to stay longer on your website. If you want them to be satisfied with their experience, you should be sure that they have received the best personal support. Here comes Groove in the picture – the helpdesk software that will help you and your team to deliver awesome customer support to your website visitors.

Dashlane

Save yourself time and trouble and organize and secure your passwords by using Dashlane.

Streak

Improve the business relationships with your customers by using one of the most popular and useful CRM tools. Install Streak for Gmail and run your entire business from your inbox.