Ekrem Imamoglu
Through Tech Istanbul, we provide entrepreneurs with the support they need across all business processes, from the idea stage to marketing. Additionally, we strengthen every player in the technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem with the expertise of experienced professionals.
What is Tech Istanbul?
Tech Istanbul, operating under the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Department of Information Technology’s Smart City Branch, serves as an entrepreneurship ecosystem across four locations.
Through Tech Istanbul, we support everyone in the technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem — from young individuals taking their first steps into the field, to entrepreneurs looking to expand their impact, build networks, and enhance their knowledge base.
Our mission is to foster innovation in Istanbul, develop high-value-added products, and integrate technology into our processes. We achieve this by:
- Offering training for new technologies,
- Providing office spaces and workshops for entrepreneurs,
- Facilitating meetings with experts and mentors,
- Connecting entrepreneurs with investors, and
- Supporting networking opportunities.
Tech Istanbul Pre-Incubation Program
The Tech Istanbul Pre-Incubation Program has been running since 2023 to accelerate the entrepreneurial journey of technology-focused entrepreneurs across various sectors by helping them develop their ideas and products. Entrepreneurs from all sectors operating in different stages of technology-based startups can participate in this program.
Program Process:
- Applications begin with an online evaluation process, followed by a jury evaluation.
- Entrepreneurs accepted into the program will begin the pre-incubation process.
- After completing the program, participants may qualify for Demo Day, where they can showcase their startups.
Benefits for Program Participants:
- Access to office spaces.
- Ability to develop products in production workshops.
- Participation in tailored training sessions on business models, financing, and strategy.
- Consultation support with experts and mentors.
- Access to free or discounted programs.
- Opportunities to join investor meetings, presenting their startups to potential investors.
- Social media and PR support, enhancing their visibility.
- The chance to integrate their developed projects into the Istanbul Senin platform.
Tech Istanbul Growth Program
The Tech Istanbul Growth Program is an advanced-level initiative designed for technology-based startups that aim to address Istanbul's specific needs. Entrepreneurs participating in this program gain the opportunity to present their products to IMM (Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality), its subsidiaries, and affiliated organizations, as well as to conduct Proof of Concept (PoC) trials. Thanks to Growth, startups also get the chance to test their technological products directly with Istanbul residents.
Who Can Apply?
Advanced-level startups with sale-ready technological products, especially in sectors like:
- Environment and Energy,
- Mobile Technologies,
- Digital Transformation, and
- Mobility,
are encouraged to apply. An important criterion is that the startup must develop a product that addresses Istanbul's challenges.
Program Process:
- Online Applications are reviewed first.
- Selected startups proceed to a jury evaluation stage.
- Those chosen meet with representatives from IMM and its subsidiaries, where startups for PoC trials are finalized.
- Startups selected for the PoC process can showcase and test their products.
- Startups that successfully complete the PoC process may earn a spot in the Tech Istanbul Demo Day.
How to Apply to Tech Istanbul?
To apply for Tech Istanbul programs:
- Visit tech.istanbul/v2/tr/.
- Review the details of the program you're interested in.
- Click “HEMEN BAŞVUR” to fill out the online application form.
- Choose the appropriate program (Pre-Incubation or Growth) and submit your form.
Your application will be reviewed, and you'll be contacted based on the program’s calendar.
Tech Istanbul in Numbers
- 4 locations with dedicated offices.
- 477 startups have benefited from the programs.
- Conducted 2,100 events.
- Reached 146,000 participants.
- Secured a total investment of $84 million.
- Received 3 awards from national and international evaluation organizations.
Where is Tech Istanbul Located?
Tech Istanbul has four campuses located in Istanbul's most central areas:
- Tech Istanbul Şişli
Address: Merkez, Abide-i Hürriyet Cad. Habitat Yaşam Merkezi A Blok No: 211 Tech Istanbul | Şişli Kat: 2, 34384 Şişli - Tech Istanbul Şişhane
Address: Şişhane Metro İstasyonu (Vergi Dairesi Girişi, -1. Kat) Şahkulu Mah. Meşrutiyet Cad. No: 125 34421 Beyoğlu - Tech Istanbul Başakşehir
Address: Başak Mahallesi Şeyh Şamil Cad. No:14 Metrokent (Metro İstasyonu Yanı) Başakşehir - Tech Istanbul Kayışdağı
Address: Kayışdağı Mahallesi, Dudullu Caddesi Ataşehir
