A guide to grants and support programmes for startups in Türkiye
TÜBİTAK, KOSGEB, development agencies, technoparks and European programmes: the main non-dilutive funding options and tips for applying.
By Editorial Team
Grants and non-repayable support let you build your first product or extend your runway without giving up equity. This guide summarises the types of support Turkish startups use most and what to watch for when applying.
Amounts, conditions and deadlines of support programmes change often. Always check the official announcement of the institution before applying.
TÜBİTAK support
TÜBİTAK, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye, is one of the best-known sources of support for technology startups.
- BiGG (Individual Young Entrepreneur) programme: Through implementing organisations, it gives founders turning a technological idea into a product training, mentoring and non-repayable seed funding.
- SME R&D support: Project-based support for the R&D projects of established companies.
KOSGEB support
KOSGEB, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organisation, runs a range of programmes for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Entrepreneurship support is generally aimed at founders who have completed applied entrepreneurship training; R&D and innovation programmes are also relevant for technology startups.
Development agencies
Regional development agencies periodically open financial and technical support calls for businesses in their regions. Follow the announcements of the agency covering the province where your startup is based.
Technoparks and incubators
Startups operating in technology development zones (technoparks) can benefit from tax and employment incentives under the relevant legislation. Many technoparks also offer affordable offices, incubation programmes and investor events.
European programmes
Türkiye participates in Horizon Europe, the European Union's research and innovation programme, as an associated country. Startups in Türkiye can therefore apply to programmes such as the EIC Accelerator for high-potential deep-tech companies. Competition is intense; a strong technology and growth story is essential.
Tips for a successful application
- Read the eligibility rules first: Company age, revenue, sector and founder criteria are the first filter.
- Explain the problem and the innovation clearly: Evaluators want to see, briefly and measurably, what your technology does differently.
- Prepare a realistic budget and work plan: Tie every cost item to project goals.
- Plan the calendar early: Application windows can be short; prepare documents in advance.
- Account for reporting: After receiving support you will need to document spending and submit periodic reports.
Never miss an opportunity
On the Opportunities page of Türkiye Startups we publish grants, competitions, accelerator and incubation calls with their deadlines. Create a startup profile and you will be notified when a new opportunity matching your sector and stage is published.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal, financial or investment advice. Check official sources and consult professionals for current terms.
