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

What Andrea Barrica Learnt at 500 Startups

Pitch Like The Finalists at Startup Turkey 2016: Stokza

Building Value to Exit

Startup Turkey 2016: Special Interview with Sam Mallikarjunan

The Secret Behind Growth Hacking

Pitch Like The Finalists at Startup Turkey 2016: ErasmusInn

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #72

Didem Un Ates' Core Advice to Startups

How to Make your Customers Love You

Selçuk Atli's Core Advice to startups

Chris Skinner's Core Advice to Startups

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #42

10 Tips for Your Next Pitch

Startup Turkey 2016 Challenge Award Ceremony

Startup Turkey 2016: Special Interview with Ozgur Deniz Onur

What To Do After Graduation?

Fireside chat Didem Altop & Nevzat Aydin

Marketing Automation Tools That Will Make Your Life Easier #15

Startup Turkey 2016: Special interview with Deniz Tunçalp

Get Mentorship From Ozan Sönmez