Applications Open for Startup Weekend Women Istanbul
Istanbul, January 29 – Applications have officially opened for the Istanbul leg of Startup Weekend Women, an event set to take place simultaneously in 60 cities worldwide. Organized under the main partnership of Garanti BBVA and Techstars Turkey, this initiative aims to empower female entrepreneurs. Teams, comprising at least 50% women, will gather from March 6-8 to create real ventures within a 54-hour timeframe.
Garanti BBVA and Techstars Expand Entrepreneurship Support
Garanti BBVA, known for its extensive support to the entrepreneurship ecosystem through its Techstars Turkey main partnership, is expanding its global reach with this new event. Startup Weekend Women will bring together entrepreneurs in Istanbul, with Garanti BBVA serving as the main sponsor. The event will be hosted at Salt Galata from March 6-8. Aspiring entrepreneurs can submit their applications via http://startupweekendistanbul.com until February 28.
54 Hours to Develop New Startup Ideas
Coinciding with International Women’s Day, Startup Weekend Women offers an intensive entrepreneurial experience. Teams, consisting of individuals over 18 years old and with at least 50% female members, will develop, test, and present genuine startup ideas in just 54 hours. Participants will engage in various stages, including business model creation, product development, mentorship, and presentation preparation. They will also have the opportunity to connect with expert mentors and prominent figures within the entrepreneurship ecosystem. A key rule of the competition is that the idea owner and the presenting team member must be female entrepreneurs. Business ideas aimed at empowering women will also be prioritized when selecting winning ventures. Following the event, the female-led startups will be evaluated and rewarded by a jury. Additionally, winning ideas will have the chance to present their concepts to an international jury at the Global Pitch Competition in May 2026.
A Call to All Female Entrepreneurs and Bright Idea Owners
Garanti BBVA’s journey in supporting the entrepreneurship ecosystem, spanning nearly two decades, continues to grow with its approach to empowering and encouraging female entrepreneurs, now extending to technology-based ventures and global collaborations. The strategic partnership established with Techstars forms a crucial bridge connecting the Turkish entrepreneurship ecosystem with the world. Startup Weekend Women stands out as a powerful reflection of this vision, with a strong focus on inclusivity and equal opportunities.
Startup Weekend Istanbul Women eagerly awaits all entrepreneurs and bright idea owners who wish to unleash their entrepreneurial potential and be part of a globally impactful experience.
Source: Matriks
