Istanbul will host Take Off 2025 on December 10–11 at the Istanbul Expo Center — an international summit bringing together startups, investors, corporates, and ecosystem teams from more than 40 countries. The event positions itself as one of the region’s largest gatherings for entrepreneurship and technology, designed to support cross-border collaboration and connect founders with global capital and partners.
This year’s edition is expected to convene over 250 investors and fund managers and more than 500 tech entrepreneurs from 40+ countries. Dedicated country pavilions, including Spain, Bangladesh, North Macedonia, and Uzbekistan, will highlight national ecosystems and facilitate cross-market engagement.
Program themes
The agenda focuses on emerging technologies shaping global markets, with an emphasis on generative AI, fintech,and other next-generation sectors driving economic transformation.
Visitors will be able to engage with new technologies, attend keynote talks, watch startup presentations, and join technology-focused sessions. Side activities such as “Founder Day” and “Investor Prelude” aim to strengthen connections between founders and investors.
About Take Off
Since its launch in 2018, Take Off has hosted hundreds of startups and thousands of visitors from over 100 countries, providing a platform for early-stage teams to access global markets. Nearly 1,000 startups have taken part to date, with $1.8M in awards and investment opportunities distributed across previous editions.
The summit is organized by the Turkish Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation), the Ministry of Industry and Technology of Türkiye, and the Investment and Finance Office of the Presidency of Türkiye.
Opportunities for startups
Take Off offers several forms of support for selected early-stage and growth-stage startups, including:
- partner-backed support programs,
- grants and cash awards,
- access to a $1M investment pool,
- on-stage pitching opportunities,
- and direct investor meetings within the startup hub area.
Eligibility includes incorporated startups that have completed MVP/POC stages, secured investment, made sales, or expanded internationally.
Participation details
- The summit is free of charge for attendees.
- Startup applications are reviewed, and only selected teams receive an invitation.
- Startups without booths may still join by submitting a visitor registration form.
- Investors, corporates, universities, and ecosystem participants are welcome.
More info: takeoffistanbul.com