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.

Top Tweets on Startups You Probably Missed

I think more startups are killed by “business development” than are successful because of it.

— Sam Altman (@sama)

The kind of business development a startup should be doing is called “sales”. IE, get someone to give you money for your product.

— Sam Altman (@sama)

“Modern tech is failing to lift productivity!” “Productivity will spiral out of control—terrible for workers!” https://t.co/vRbc6g3Hsj

— Marc Andreessen (@pmarca)

“Many fintech startups will end up being used as widgets by the banks” https://t.co/gJiJ1iFeTv

— Chris Skinner (@Chris_Skinner)

“Don’t do things just because it worked well for Google or Facebook” - @Christine_Tsai on growing startups & funds https://t.co/R4oqnjBbS4

— 500 Startups (@500Startups)

Why not leave your thoughts on the comments section below? Tell us the tweets you agree/disagree with and let’s have a healthy debate on them.

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