The eighth edition of Take Off Istanbul, a leading international summit for startups, entrepreneurs, and investors, has officially commenced at the Istanbul Exhibition Center. The event brings together 500 startups and 250 investors from over 40 countries, cementing its position as one of the largest entrepreneurship gatherings in the region.
The summit is organized under the supervision of the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3), the Ministry of Industry and Technology, and the Presidency’s Investment and Finance Office.
A Hub For Regional and Global Innovation
In his opening speech, Turkish Minister of Industry and Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kacır, highlighted the summit’s significance as a testament to Turkey’s growing technological achievements on the global stage. He noted that the event, which started as part of the Teknofest aerospace and technology festival in 2018, has evolved into a major standalone platform.
“The goal of the summit is to bring the most innovative technological ideas and projects together with the right investments, as an essential part of the ‘Turkish National Technology Initiative’,” said Kacır. “The presence of more than 250 investors from over 40 countries is proof of the growing global impact of Turkey’s technological achievements.”
Turkey’s Commitment to Tech Growth
Minister Kacır emphasized Turkey’s substantial investment in its tech ecosystem, pointing to the rise in R&D spending from $1.2 billion in 2002 to approximately $20 billion in 2024. This investment has fueled a dramatic increase in the number of R&D personnel from 29,000 to 310,000 and expanded the number of technology parks to 113, which now host over 12,000 tech startups.
He also credited the success of Turkey’s defense and gaming industries for boosting its tech reputation, noting that the country now has six unicorn startups valued at over $1 billion each. Initiatives like the “Turkish Technology Visa Program” are also attracting global talent and solidifying the country’s position as a tech hub.
Connecting MENA with a Global Ecosystem
For founders and VCs in the MENA region, Take Off Istanbul represents a crucial bridge to the Turkish and international markets. The event’s focus on fostering collaboration provides a platform for MENA-based startups to connect with a diverse pool of investors and partners.
Yükan Yücel of the Presidential Investment and Finance Office stated that his office operates 24 international branches to attract foreign investment and tech projects. He added that the office provides incoming companies with logistical support, guidance on licensing and localization, and incentives such as tax reductions, creating a favorable environment for MENA startups looking to expand. This year’s event also features national pavilions from Spain, Bangladesh, North Macedonia, and Uzbekistan, showcasing its expanding international scope.
About Take Off Istanbul
Take Off Istanbul is an international technology summit that brings together startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and key ecosystem players from around the world. Organized by the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3), the Ministry of Industry and Technology, and the Presidency’s Investment Office, the event aims to connect innovative projects with investment opportunities and foster global collaboration. Since its inception in 2018, it has become one of the region’s most important gatherings for the tech and startup community.
Source: Al Araby
