Question 1

What is Startup Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Startup Istanbul is a startup ecosystem platform connecting founders, investors, and operators — built around discovery, connections, and founder-focused support.

Question 2

Are you currently organizing events?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How can I apply with my startup?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

What is StartupIst Ventures Fund I?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What is Etohum?

Accepted Answer

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).

Question 6

Who is Burak Büyükdemir?

Accepted Answer

Burak Büyükdemir is the founder of Etohum and Startup Istanbul, and the founder of StartupIst Ventures Fund I (global early-stage investing).

Question 7

How do you work with founders today?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Do you offer sponsorship or partnership opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For sponsorships, partnerships, or co-investing inquiries, please contact us via email at startupistanbul.com/contact.

Blog

Pitch Like The Finalists at Startup Turkey 2016: Tamatem

How Can You Save a Company?

Jump On the Next Wave of Opportunities

Fireside chat with Ozan Sonmez and Kivanc Onan

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #74

Entrepreneurs Succeed Everywhere – Story of Iranian Ecosystem

Get Mentorship from Ed Roberto - Techstars

Pitch Like The Finalists at Startup Turkey 2016: Dijital Kumbara

Raising a Round? Here’s How Not to Get Diluted

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #44

Super Lean MVP with Erik Anderson

Crowdfunding Will Change Venture Capital Forever

The Most Important Articles on Startupist for March, 2016

Get Mentorship on Experiments from Adam Berk

What Problems Are Accelerators Solving and Their Future

Pitch Like The Finalists at Startup Turkey 2016: iklim.co

Marketing Automation Tools That Will Make Your Life Easier #17

3 Steps to Building a Successful Marketplace in a Fast-Changing Market

Getting Plugged into Silicon Valley - Selçuk Atli

What Makes Israel So Popular In the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in the Region?