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 importance of long term planning when building a startup

Special interview with Sameer Shariff, the co-founder of Cambly

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #6

How to think out of the box in business

Protect your personal assets from the business risk of entrepreneurship

10 reasons to start your own business

How much is too much: revealing your startup idea

This is why you need a co-founder for your startup

How to find your passion and build innovative startup

Key points of choosing an office space for your startup

Business tasks entrepreneurs should find time for

5 tools to build an app prototype for you startup

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #5

5 must-read books for entrepreneurs

How to embrace future changes for your startup

The business plan mistakes entrepreneurs make

Why you should hire millennials for your startup

10 important personality traits for entrepreneurs

How to form good habits

Listening is important for your startup

How to be more confident in business?

Sunday International Column: Startups around the world #4

How to stay focused

Up, up, up: Managing professional development at a start-up