Government Support and Public Programs
KOSGEB – Entrepreneur and Business Development Support
KOSGEB offers start-up and business development support to entrepreneurs establishing new businesses. Support of up to 1.5 million TL is available for young entrepreneurs with special upper limits and rates. Applications are made through KOSGEB’s e-applications system and provincial directorates.
TÜBİTAK – 1512 BİGG (Individual Young Entrepreneurship) Program
The TÜBİTAK BİGG Program, which provides grant support for technology-focused business ideas, offers selected entrepreneurs both financing and acceleration opportunities through implementing organizations. This program is one of the first places young entrepreneurs should apply, especially for projects with strong R&D content.
Other Public Opportunities
İŞKUR’s vocational training and internship programs, regional development agencies’ local grants, and technopark support also contribute to young entrepreneurs increasing their skills and growing their businesses.
University and Technology Park Ecosystem
ITU Çekirdek
One of Türkiye’s best-known early-stage accelerators, ITU Çekirdek offers entrepreneurs mentorship, training, office space, and investment opportunities. Through programs run in partnership with TÜBİTAK BİGG, it supports young teams with technology-based ideas. It also organizes various calls and competitions for high school entrepreneurs, such as “student teams.”
Other University Incubators and Technology Parks
Technology parks and incubator centers at many universities, such as ODTÜ, Boğaziçi, Bilkent, and Ege, provide office space, laboratory access, mentorship, and investor networking opportunities. High school entrepreneurs can receive early-stage support by participating in competitions and events organized by these centers.
Angel Investment Networks and Private Accelerators
Galata Business Angels
Galata Business Angels, one of Türkiye’s most well-known angel investment networks, provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to meet early-stage investors. Young entrepreneurs can apply to events organized by these networks to secure investment and showcase their business ideas.
Private Accelerators and Corporate Programs
Accelerator programs organized by Startupbootcamp, Endeavor Türkiye, and banks/institutions help young teams prepare their products for the market, find customers, and connect with investors.
Competitions, Grants, and Alternative Financing
In addition to calls for proposals opened by TÜBİTAK and KOSGEB, entrepreneurship competitions organized by municipalities and universities provide cash prizes, mentorship, and visibility. Furthermore, crowdfunding platforms stand out as a method for young entrepreneurs to test their products through pre-sales and gain early customers.
Recommendations for High School Entrepreneurs
- Clarify your idea: Applications are more effective with a simple prototype or demo.
- Prepare: Prepare a one-page project summary and a short presentation file.
- Find a mentor: Teachers at school or advisors at university technology parks can guide you.
- Keep track of the calendar: KOSGEB and TÜBİTAK calls open periodically; subscribe to their announcement pages.
- Don’t neglect legal issues: Get support from an advisor on practical matters such as taxes and company formation.
Featured Resources
- KOSGEB Entrepreneur Supports
- TÜBİTAK 1512 / BiGG Calls
- İTÜ Core Programs
- Galata Business Angels (Angel Investment Network)
Institutions and funds supporting young entrepreneurs in Türkiye are diversifying and expanding their scope every year. High school entrepreneurs can quickly turn their ideas into reality by applying to the right programs and evaluating mentoring and financing opportunities. The first step towards a successful journey is to be aware of these supports and take action in a timely manner.
