BTM Startups Secure $11M in First Half-Year: Turkey’s Startup Ecosystem Accelerates

The Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO) and the Technology Transfer Center (BTM) announced that startups have secured $11 million in investment during the first half of 2026.

Record-Breaking Capital Inflow

■$11 Million total investment captured in the first six months.

■Over the past decade, BTM-backed ventures have attracted a cumulative $66 Million in funding.

■Portfolio valuation has surpassed $560 Million.

■Current portfolio size stands at $2.1 Billion.

Support Ecosystem: 851 Ventures, 983 Entrepreneurs

■851 ventures received services ranging from training and mentorship to business development.

■Direct assistance was provided to 983 entrepreneurs.

■143 ventures secured funding during this period.

Global Partnerships and Geographic Expansion

■Offices in London, Dubai, and Sarajevo have strengthened access across Europe, the Gulf, and the Balkans.

■Strategic investment links have been forged with markets in the US, the UK, Europe, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

Sector‑Specific Investment Trends

■Artificial Intelligence startups experienced the most intense investment rounds.

■Gaming, SaaS, and AI projects attracted US investors, while B2B software, health, and industrial tech drew interest from the UK and Europe.

■FinTech, retail, construction tech, and AI solutions saw strong demand from Middle‑East investors.

Financial Summary and Valuation

■Ten‑year total investment: $66 Million, total valuation: $560 Million.

■Current portfolio size: $2.1 Billion.

■The $11 Million fresh capital in H1 2026 confirms the ecosystem’s scalability and international appeal.

Turkey’s startup landscape, powered by multi‑dimensional support from hubs like BTM, is not only attracting capital but also forging global collaborations and sector‑focused growth pathways. The tilt toward AI and high‑tech ventures aligns with the nation’s ambition for tech‑driven exports and job creation. This momentum can amplify valuation gains and boost international competitiveness, positioning Turkey as a regional innovation hub.