Entertech Istanbul Technopark, one of Turkey’s most successful technoparks, honored individuals contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem with the “Best of the Year Awards Ceremony.” A total of 24 entrepreneurs, who embrace the power of transformation, stand out with their courage, and continue to grow despite all challenges, were awarded in 18 different categories. Operating in partnership with Istanbul University and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Entertech Istanbul Technopark celebrated academic entrepreneurs for their achievements at the ceremony, held under the theme “Keyholders of Transformation.”
In his opening speech at the event, Entertech Istanbul Technopark General Manager Dr. Muhammed Kasapoğlu emphasized that technoparks are spaces where science, technology, and entrepreneurship intersect, stating that their success is directly tied to the strength of the ecosystem they create. Highlighting that they operate through a partnership between two prestigious research universities, Kasapoğlu noted that being part of Istanbul University and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa provides significant advantages in terms of access to academic knowledge, human capital, and research infrastructure.
As a technopark, they host more than 160 companies and over 1,700 R&D personnel, fostering the development of more than 350 domestic and national projects across a wide range of fields, from health technologies to cybersecurity, defense industry to financial technologies.
Prof. Dr. Nuri Aydın, Rector of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, highlighted the significance of Entertech Istanbul Technopark as the only technopark in Turkey jointly operated by two research universities. He noted that, following an evaluation by the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the technopark has risen to fourth place among over 70 technoparks in Turkey and expressed their goal to climb to third place soon while expanding its sphere of influence to an even higher level.
Aydın emphasized the crucial role of internationalization in this growth process, stating that they have opened an office in Amsterdam, providing entrepreneurs with opportunities to present their projects to international investors. Additionally, he announced that a London office will open in the summer, creating two key entry points for entrepreneurs in both mainland Europe and the UK.
He also underlined their commitment to strengthening collaborations between academia and the business world, ensuring closer ties with the industry and fostering ongoing partnerships.
Following the speeches, awards were presented to 24 entrepreneurs across 18 different categories. As part of the ceremony, the most successful technology startups of the year, outstanding digital transformation projects, companies contributing significantly to the economy, successful export-driven ventures, and businesses excelling in university-industry collaboration were honored.
Entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the technology ecosystem celebrated their achievements by receiving their awards, marking a milestone in their success.
