Strong Interest in the 2024 Startup Investment Summit

In the second quarter of 2024, the global startup ecosystem reached its highest level in five quarters with a transaction volume of $94.3 billion. According to KPMG’s 2024 Investment Report, this upward trend was mirrored in Türkiye, where startup investments quadrupled in the same period to reach $558.8 million. This impressive growth is a testament to Türkiye’s strengthening presence on the global entrepreneurship stage. According to the StartupBlink 2024 Ecosystem Report, Türkiye ranks among the top 50 countries, and these investments are further boosting the global competitiveness of its startups.

Held on December 4, 2024, at Istanbul Gorrion Hotel Convention Center, the Startup Investment Summit—one of Türkiye’s most prestigious entrepreneurship events—was a major success, attracting 1,000 participants. Bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate leaders, the summit provided a significant platform to support innovative business ideas and contribute to the Turkish economy.

A Shared Platform for Entrepreneurs and Investors

Throughout the event, 85 startups showcased their projects in the networking and demo area, engaging in one-on-one meetings with corporate executives and investors. 60 investment evaluation jurors reviewed the startup booths to assess their potential. Additionally, 18 selected startups had the opportunity to pitch on stage directly to a room full of investors.

Awards and Sponsor Support

Top-performing startups were recognized and rewarded with the support of summit sponsors, including Dorabase, Akbank, Grape Law, Fellas, Faselis, Girişimup, Başakşehir Living Lab, SEYEV, Emek Law, Waytogo, and Techsign. These awards not only accelerated startup growth but also contributed significantly to Türkiye’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

New Partnerships and Signing Ceremonies

The summit served not only as a meeting point for startups and investors, but also as a hub for new collaborations and signing ceremonies. Başakşehir Living Lab signed Proof of Concept (PoC) agreements between Başakşehir Municipality and multiple startups, creating a strong bridge between local governments and entrepreneurs.

Additionally, in4startups signed strategic cooperation agreements with Arvis, Roket.Academy, and Emek Law for its 2025 acceleration programs and entrepreneurship initiatives. These partnerships are expected to bolster long-term innovation projects within Türkiye’s startup ecosystem.

Significant Investment in Szone

During the summit, Szone, a smart vending startup, received a ₺3.5 million investment at a ₺35 million valuation, led by Asya Ventures. A seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in the vending industry and part of the Asya Ventures investor network also joined the round. According to KPMG, such deals provide not only financial backing but also strategic “smart money” support through valuable networks. Szone plans to use the investment to scale domestically, aiming to enhance user experience and market share by expanding the number of smart vending points.

Presentations and Networking Opportunities

Presentations during the summit offered insights into current trends, investment strategies, and global opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Networking sessions enabled entrepreneurs and investors to connect in person, fostering new partnerships. Entrepreneurs also received valuable feedback to help them take their projects to the next level.

Contributing to Türkiye’s Startup Ecosystem

Now in its fourth edition, the Startup Investment Summit once again fulfilled its mission to promote entrepreneurship culture in Türkiye. The high level of interest in this year’s summit has motivated organizers to continue hosting similar large-scale events in the future. Both in4startups and Asya Ventures confirmed their commitment to strengthening the ecosystem and announced plans to launch even bigger projects in the coming period.

In a post-event statement, in4startups Co-Founder Ahmet Sefa Bir said:

“We see great potential for Türkiye’s startup ecosystem to rise to an international level. This summit has been an important step toward supporting innovative projects and reaching larger goals.”

Asya Ventures Managing Partner Şerafettin Özsoy added:

“We are taking the right steps at the right time to make Türkiye a stronger player in startup investment. This summit has laid the foundation for our future success.”

About the Startup Investment Summit

The Startup Investment Summit is organized by in4startups and Asya Ventures co-founders Ahmet Sefa Bir and Şerafettin Özsoy, with the aim of supporting innovation and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Now in its fourth year, the summit provides a dynamic platform for startups to pitch to investors and for academics and business professionals to connect around cutting-edge ideas.

🔗 For more information and news about the summit, visit: https://startupyatirimzirvesi.com