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

Startup Istanbul 2015: Special Interview with Christopher Schroeder

Startup Istanbul 2015 Stage Talk: Ed Roberto

Startup Istanbul 2015 Stage Talk: Selcuk Atli

Startup Istanbul 2015: Special Interview with Steli Efti

Startup Istanbul 2015: Amal Dokhan on the Role of Universities and the Importance of Technology in Entrepreneurship

Startup Istanbul 2015: Special Interview with Prof. Hans Wissema

Startup Istanbul 2015: Special Interview with Dave McClure

Special Interview with Farhad Hedayati, Founder of Taskulu

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #51

6th edition of How to Web Conference will be on 26-27 November

Startup Istanbul 2015: Special Interview with Steve Blank

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #21

Philip Auerswald at Startup Istanbul 2015: The Importance of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

Startup Istanbul 2015: Aurore Belfrage and Teruhide Sato

Tech In Asia will be held on 11-12 November (Etohum promo code)

Startup Istanbul 2015: Meet the winners

Watch the Presentation of Morten Lund at Startup Istanbul 2015 Conference

Prof. Hans Wissema at Startup Istanbul 2015: Future Trends in Entrepreneurship

Ross Kingsland at Startup Istanbul 2015: Five Marketing Strategies You Should Use Today

Nick Tommarello at Startup Istanbul 2015: The Future of Investment Funding