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.

Founder Central

12 Quotes That Will Help You to Instantly Boost Your Confidence

Startup Istanbul Challenge: Meet The Selected Startups #6

Four Apps and Tools That Will Help You to Stick to Your Goals

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #47

Startup Istanbul Challenge: Meet The Selected Startups #4

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #17

Five Awesome Social Media TED Talks Every Entrepreneur Should Watch

Startup Istanbul Challenge: Meet The Selected Startups #3

5 Things You Need to Know About Yourself Before You Start Your Own Business

Feeling Lost? Five Things That Will Help You to (Re)Discover Your Entrepreneurship Path

Startup Istanbul Challenge: Meet The Selected Startups

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #46

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #16

Meet The Partners of Startup Istanbul 2015: Endeavor Turkey

Toggl: The Ultimate Time Tracking Tool Every Busy Entrepreneur Needs

Startup Istanbul 2015: Who I'm Excited to See

The Importance of Raising The Future Generation of Entrepreneurs

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #45

Box.com's Florian Jourda coming Istanbul for Etohum Cafe meeting

Ray Dargham will be at Startup Istanbul on 3-5 October

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #15

12 Timeless Quotes on Persistence Every Entrepreneur Should Live By

Delicious Turkish Foods And Drinks You Should Try

Need Inspiration? 5 Biographies Every Entrepreneur Should Read