ITU SEED Acceleration Program boosts startups to go global with countless opportunities in one of the best metropolises in the world; Istanbul.
What is ITU SEED International Startup Accelerator?
At ITU SEED, we have hosted thousands of startups over the last 13 years and accompanied them in their global success stories. Join us at ITU SEED International Startup Accelerator! Develop your startup in the world’s best university incubator, take advantage of countless opportunities and commercialize your products quickly.
Technology-based qualified human power
Tax benefits
Access to global and local investment
The total value of our startups exceeds 3 billion dollars.
Geographical proximity to both the European and Middle Eastern markets
Cost-efficient environment
Our Ecosystem
What does the program offers to
Entrepreneurs?
Investors?
Stakeholders?
Mentors?
Entrepreneurs
Tax exempted office space in Istanbul, ITU ARI Technopark
Financial Center of Turkey
Networking with Corporate Companies & Investors
Live presentation to global and local investors
Mentorship
Workshops
Business Development
Talent Pool
Prototyping Labs
Near €50 million in awards, cash and investment
Access to global market
Investors
Access to startups in the region
Demo days specific to investor focus
Co-investment
Investment reports
Participate in the Global Demo Day
Stakeholders
Intrapreneurship
Open innovation
B2B matchmaking with corporate companies and startups
Demo days specific to industry/corporation-needs focus
Mentors
Online Mentorship Platform
Connection to Hundreds of Startups
Mentor Club Network
Open Innovation
ITU SEED with Numbers
12000+
Supported Entrepreneurs
90
Different Countries
5000+
Startups
$300 M+
Investment
11500+
Employment
Program Journey for Entrepreneurs and Startups
What did they say?
BitloopsSergio Pereira
The Big Bang Startup Challenge event and ITU SEED program had a very positive impact on our startup. We improved our strategy, pitch deck, and sales approach, and demoed Bitloops to new potential users, successfully onboarding a few. The experience at the Big Bang Startup Challenge was fantastic, with great mentor support. Bitloops won two awards (₺600K Cash Award and Growth Program with 1-1 KPI Mentors) and is currently in a due diligence process to raise funds for the new round.
FaneraMo Killany
Participating in the Big Bang Startup Challenge was an incredible experience for Fanera. Pitching on stage gave us valuable feedback, while connecting with investors, mentors, and partners opened doors for new collaborations. The exposure helped refine our strategy and strengthen our position in the Web3 fan engagement space. We also explored partnerships in KSA, Turkey, and discussed launching Fanera’s Web3 token with SuiHub
TailorCastAlexey Shangin
We networked with 100+ investors and professionals, gaining recognition and support from the ITU Growth program, along with ARI Teknokent residency. The event was memorable and impactful, thanks to ITU Çekirdek. The Big Bang Startup Challenge was incredible—onboarding was smooth, support was excellent, and the atmosphere was electrifying. Since the event, we gained 10 new prospects and are actively leveraging the opportunities to strengthen negotiations for a $200,000 investment.
Astrek Innovations Robin Kanattu Thomas; Jithin Vidya Ajith
The ITU SEED program has been a great experience for Astrek. It provided valuable insights on scaling globally, especially in the Turkish market, and connected us with experienced mentors. The program is well-organized and highly recommended for companies focusing on Turkey, Europe, and MENA regions.
It offered a fresh perspective on pitching, selling, and marketing, helping us understand how to approach clients and investors. We're proud to be part of this global community.
AWRDMohammed Chehab
The ITU Seed program is exceptional in terms of its learnings, mentors, and sessions. The insights and guidance we received were crucial to AWRD's success. Each session was filled with valuable information, and the mentors provided the expertise and support we needed to navigate the startup landscape. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities and knowledge ITU Seed has provided.
Bluana Foods Florin Irimescu
The ITU SEED program has been transformative for Bluana Foods. The guidance, resources, and network we've gained have been crucial in advancing our plant-based food mission. The ITU SEED team's support provided valuable insights and connections, accelerating our growth and innovation. We're grateful for the opportunities and look forward to continued success and collaboration. Thank you, ITU SEED, for being a cornerstone in our journey.
Boksy Ivana Karalieva Petreska
I'm especially happy with how well-organized and communicated the acceleration program is. Whenever I had a question or needed support, I received an answer in under an hour. The program offers high-quality mentorship and speakers with proven experience who truly understand startups. I would recommend it to all startups targeting this region or looking to grow their network and mentorship.
CalicheAmit Priyadarshan
The program highlighted the opportunities for establishing a business in Turkey and its potential as a gateway to European markets. It is well-coordinated, tailored to the specific needs of startups, and delivers relevant sessions accordingly.
Dyno & Motiva SystemsMoez Waddey
The ITU SEED Program has been crucial in accelerating our growth, offering valuable insights and practical tools for the entrepreneurial journey. The high-quality mentorship from industry experts has helped refine our business model and expand our market reach, especially in North Africa and beyond. Workshops like "Ultimate Guide to Developing a Sales and Business Development Strategy for Global Growth" and "Growth Mindset for Global Growth" provided inspiring and actionable strategies.
EmsoftLeniza Mukhametzyanova
The ITU SEED program covers important aspects of entering foreign markets, and the practical classes were especially valuable. We believe our software will succeed in the Turkish market. We wish good luck to ITU SEED and the entire team.
Envinova Smartech Arjun Mittal
The program has been great, especially in helping us understand how to set up a business in Turkey and how the ecosystem can support our growth. Being from India and looking for global expansion, the program gave us a head start. The sessions have been very informative, and the overall program design and resources are excellent.
Fabiosys InnovationsYatee Gupta
If you're looking for a community where everyone is genuinely committed to the success of your startup, this is the program for you.
InsulLoc AI Oancea Bogdan
I was amazed by the quality of the mentoring, particularly their deep knowledge of the health sector, which I haven't found in any other general accelerator so far.
MonitorExam Manu Gupta
The program provided up-to-date insights on how to launch an early-stage startup in a new market and achieve product-market fit.
PayCoo Ahmed Abdelhady
As the founder of Paycoo, the program has provided us with crucial insights into the Turkish market, significantly shaping our business strategy. The resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities have been invaluable. We've gained a better understanding of local market dynamics, enabling us to make informed decisions and tailor our services accordingly.
Roommate Marika Khantadze
The ITU SEED acceleration program has been an incredible resource for understanding and entering the Turkish market. It provides a comprehensive overview of Turkey's unique business landscape, offering insights into local regulations, consumer behavior, and market opportunities. The online format is convenient, and access to local mentors and industry experts has been especially beneficial. I highly recommend ITU SEED to any entrepreneur looking to expand their knowledge and presence in Turkey.
SeekMake Adel Ayari
ITU SEED has been instrumental in our startup journey, providing valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources that have fueled our growth. We are grateful for the program's support and look forward to continued success.
TelcoLab Mohamed IDRISSI
I’m delighted to share my positive experience with the ITU SEED program. Its innovative approach to technology and science has provided valuable insights and resources, enhancing my understanding of cutting-edge solutions. The collaboration with industry experts and access to valuable networks have been particularly beneficial, contributing to both my professional growth and project advancement. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program and look forward to its continued success.
UNIQUE BIOTECH Josh Galt, Gabriela Cruz
The program has been well-organized and informative, covering key topics for startups considering Turkey. It has expanded our global strategy, with Turkey sharing similarities to Malaysia, where our parent company is based, and Mexico, where we’re fundraising for expansion. We now see clear pathways for deeper involvement in the region. Thanks to the ITU SEED team for a valuable experience.
UniToniHalit Ahmet
The program provided invaluable mentorship, resources, and networking that accelerated our growth and refined our platform. Thanks to ITU SEED, we've improved our product and strategy, positioning UniToni to transform the university experience with a seamless integration of social and academic life.
Weara Hadi Hosseinzadeh, Soheil Hashemi
The ITU SEED Program has been a key driver of our startup's growth. As a seed-level tech company, we needed not just funding but also guidance and resources, which the program provided. For any seed-stage tech startup, the ITU SEED Program is the ideal launchpad. We’re grateful for the opportunities and support, and highly recommend it to emerging tech entrepreneurs.
WeavAirNatalia Mykhaylova
Participating in the ITU SEED program has been transformative for our organization. The program’s support and resources have helped us refine our technology, scale solutions, and drive impactful change. Guidance from industry experts and access to a global network have accelerated our growth. ITU SEED’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned us as leaders in our field. We are grateful for the opportunity and highly recommend ITU SEED to any organization seeking to make a significant impact.
DevelhopeMassimiliano Costa
Thanks to ITU SEED and its squad, we are now re-designing our training model in the country, tailoring our program on the market needs and improving our Talent placement rate. For this reason we would like to express our gratitude to the ITU SEED organizers, trainers and coach, for giving us the opportunity to participate in this strategic program, providing accurate market insights and local connections.
vencortexDr. Dominik Dellermann
What sets the ITU SEED program apart is its comprehensive approach to support. They offer a wide range of resources including tailored workshops, networking events, access to industry experts, and even funding opportunities. This holistic support system has equipped us with the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to thrive in the competitive startup landscape.
Ender TuringOlena Iosifova
ITU SEED program is the must come place for every international startup who wants to work on Turkish market. The amount of country relevant business insights is impressive.
GeojetDenis Bulatov; Zach Pokudov
That was a very compelling experience! ITU Seed provides a deep dive into Turkish market and local digital trends. That is also supported by numerous lectures and seminars. Participants and mentors are open-minded and ready to challenge each other, which ensures healthy competition. We're very curious to know where our partnerhsip will lead us further.
DiabetterSoodeh Razeghi Jahromi
The ITU SEED program is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to start or grow their businesses in the fields of technology, innovation, and social impact. The program provides mentorship, training, networking, and access to resources that can help them achieve their goals.
Base2Giorgi Tsartsidze
Thanks to ITU SEED, we have greatly improved current and learned new metrics, which made our future view more clearer and more achievable. We highly recommend ITU SEED to any startup that wants to grow and scale in Turkey and in Global markets.
MyndPlayTre Azam
The programme has been a great refresher on business, sales, marketing, PR and also an exciting way to learn about the Turkish market and its potential. I enjoyed the sessions and felt that there were many things we forget and also need to keep up to date with in these challenging times. Thanks for a great few months of learning and thought provoking topics.
Dione ProtocolStefan Kermer
The ITU SEED program helped us to engage with turkish partners to build our products. Great team and program.
60secondsIvan Kadic
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by the ITU SEED program. This program has not only equipped me with valuable skills in technology and entrepreneurship but has also opened doors to a network of like-minded individuals and mentors. The guidance and support I received throughout the program have been instrumental in the growth of my startup. Thanks to the ITU SEED program, I am now on a path towards building a successful tech business.
Emma SensingIshay Kokavka
Early stage startups that operate globally but intend to penetrate the Turkish market will benefit greatly from this program. There is a lot of information on the culture and business behavior of the locals, as well as information on legal matters and other important issues. Taking part in this program is an excellent opportunity for startup companies looking to cooperate or to get ‘foot on the ground’ in Turkey.
AIT Group (PFMS)Henry Ngale Foretia
The lessons learned at the ITU SEED program are a must-have for every entrepreneur. The instructors are well versed in their various subjects to the core. I see a great difference in my business when I apply the knowledge I gain. Thank you very much.
JobfulMihai Cepoi
Joining ITU SEED allowed us to better understand the Turkish market, its opportunities and business insights. The entire experience blended face to face customer meetings with great learning sessions and guidance.
NomisArty Shatilov
ITU SEED has proven invaluable in providing us with a renewed perspective on our projects, enabling us to explore and test new business models and distribution channels. Additionally, their network of esteemed mentors has facilitated valuable guidance and support, and are helping us secure our seed round with confidence.
RIDERPhil Dogan
ITU seed lecturers provided us with valuable insights into the Turkish market. Especially the mentorship program was very beneficial for our strategic orientation. The whole ITU team did a great job and worked passionately to make us succeed.
EhotelspaceDarejan Liparteliani
Learned a lot and benefited from your course! Thank you! Thank you so much for facilitating such a positive learning environment!
I feel your support and I know that
Our cooperation will continue.
Tensor LabDenis Zelenov
Received mentorship, access to funding, and valuable industry connections for rapid growth.
VOOVOOVakthang Iashvili
I would like to express my gratitude toward the program - during the ITU Seed acceleration we were mentored by quite good trainers, VOOVOO passed and got a useful experience.
SoMin.aiAleks Farseev
Participation in ITU SEED helped SoMin.ai in adapting to the Turkish startup ecosystem dynamics. We especially learnt the little yet important and strategic behaviors to consider while approaching investors and customers - thanks to the program management team, especially to Mert Konuk and Belinay Yandi. As a result we were the only startup from the international landscape that is among the top 20 in the Big Bang Startup Challenge!
VESA SYSTEMVlad Andreev
We had experience with acceleration program, but it was not as properly structured as the ITU Seed program. So if you are now at the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey, you definitely need this program. Thanks to the mentors and the ITU Seed Team!
myStashChristina Okere
The ITU SEED program opened my eyes to the Fintech landscape in Turkey. I also enjoyed and learnt a lot from the mentor sessions, particularly the ones with Eoin McGuinness, who helped review our GTM strategies.
