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

How to build a pitch deck that will ACTUALLY raise money

Pitching Your Startup to a New Investor

Learn about Venture Capital, Financial Accounting, Entrepreneurship Opportunities and more on edX

Marketing Automation Tools That Can Make Your Life Easier #7

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #6

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #5

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #4

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #3

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #2

Pitching to a VC? Here's What You Need To Know #1

3 Apps That Will Help You to Achieve Success through Focus

The Importance of Pivoting in Entrepreneurship

Yemeksepeti CEO, Nevzat Aydin is a Keynote Speaker at Startup Turkey

How to get your startup featured on TechCrunch

Do Things That Don’t Scale In Startups

Five Important Lessons Entrepreneurs Can Learn from the Fashion Industry

Open Data as Powerful Resource for Innovative Entrepreneurs

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #63

How To Make Your Startup Stand Out

The Entrepreneurial Personality: Five Traits of Remarkably Likable People