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

Andrea Barrica at Startup Istanbul 2015: 5 Lessons on How to Bootstrap a Startup After $1M

Startup Istanbul 2015: Steve Blank and Prof. Dr. Erhan Erkut

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #50

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #20

Startup Istanbul 2015 Stage Talk: Christopher Schroeder

Dave McClure at Startup Istanbul: Entrepreneurship in Emerging Markets

Three Networking Mistakes First-Time Entrepreneurs Make

The Entrepreneurship Mindset: The Power of Reinventing Yourself

Startup Istanbul 2015 Challenge: Watch the Award Ceremony

Entrepreneurship and Leadership: Can We Have More Than One True Calling?

Startup Istanbul 2015 Challenge: Meet the Winners

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #49

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #19

Vision and entrepreneurship: what makes a visionary leader?

Startup Istanbul Challenge: Meet The Selected Startups #8

The Most Popular Articles on Startupist for September

Prof. Hans Wisemma will be at Startup Istanbul on 03 - 05 October

5 Health Habits That Are Essential for Entrepreneurs

Startup Istanbul 2015: Speakers and Mentors

Configure Your Startup Team: 10 Reasons to Hire the Well Travelled