Istanbul Launches GovTech Program with 5 Million TL Startup Support

Ender Öztürk

October 23, 2026

The Istanbul Development Agency (ISTKA) has officially launched the GovTech Istanbul Support Program, an ambitious initiative designed to bridge the gap between public sector challenges and innovative technology startups. Starting in November 2026, the program provides a financial framework where ISTKA covers the costs for startups to develop custom solutions for public institutions. By facilitating this collaboration, the program aims to digitize administrative processes and enhance service efficiency across the city. Startups participating in the project can receive up to 500,000 TL for initial concept development and up to 5 million TL for creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).

Public Institutions Receive Solutions Without Financial Burdens

Operating under the coordination of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, GovTech Istanbul introduces a unique funding model. In this setup, public agencies define the specific problems they encounter, while technology-driven startups undertake the task of developing technical solutions. The most significant advantage for these institutions is the absence of direct costs, as the entire financial burden is managed by ISTKA.

This initiative ensures that the public sector benefits from modern digital transformation without the need for complex procurement processes. While the public entity gains the right to utilize the developed MVP at no cost, the startups maintain ownership of the intellectual property, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem for all parties involved.

The Application Process Follows Four Distinct Stages

The program follows a structured four-stage process to ensure the highest quality of innovation. Once a public institution reports a need, a call for startups is published. After a selection process, up to three startups are chosen to develop a solution concept, each receiving 500,000 TL. Following the concept phase, the institution selects one partner to build the MVP within a four-month timeframe, with a potential three-month extension. The final 5 million TL funding is disbursed only after the institution formally accepts the finished product during a Demo Day event.

Eligibility Criteria Define Who Can Participate

Participation is open to a wide range of governmental bodies, including ministries, local municipalities, and regulatory authorities within Istanbul. While entities like the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, district municipalities, and state universities are eligible, municipal subsidiaries and public economic enterprises are excluded from the program. Each institution is restricted to a maximum of two framework agreements to ensure diversity in the projects supported.

Innovative Technology Focuses on Scalable Outcomes

The program prioritizes tangible public needs over specific technology stacks. Whether the project involves artificial intelligence for traffic management, IoT for energy optimization, or cybersecurity for data protection, the solution must be scalable and yield measurable success metrics. Projects that rely on existing market solutions or lack growth potential are excluded from funding. The agency expects all proposed solutions to become functional within four to seven months, ensuring that the impact on public services remains timely and relevant.

How do you think these digital transformations will change your daily interaction with public services in Istanbul? We invite you to share your thoughts and expectations in the comments section below.