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

The Most Popular Articles on Startupist for August

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #44

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #14

Vera Shokina Will Be at Startup Istanbul on 03-05 October

Techstars MENA Community Summit Will Be Held at Startup Istanbul on 03-05 October

A Talk For Generation Y: Should You Really Follow Your Passion?

Why Sometimes You Should Embrace Conflict and Disagreement at Work

What VCs Really Want In a Startup

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #43

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #13

Discover Istanbul: Famous Restaurants You Should Visit

How to Say Goodbye to Career Planning: Create Your Personal Business Model

Embrace Your Entrepreneurial Spirit: The Importance of Doing Business Your Own Way

Work Smart Not Hard: 7 Tools to Help You Organize Your To-Do List Like a Pro

Discover Istanbul: Bars and Clubs You Should Visit

3 Useful Tips On How To Communicate With Confidence

Entrepreneurship on edX: 7 Online Courses You Shouldn’t Miss

Discover Istanbul: Top 5 Museums You Should Visit

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #42

Awesome Growth Hacking Tools #12

TED Talk with Matt Cutts: Try Something New for 30 Days

Three Tools That Will Help You Nail Your Next Presentation

The Importance of Value Proposition For The Success of Every Startup

You Should Keep an Eye on The Competition, but Quit Obsessing Over it