Istanbul: The International Young Entrepreneurs Congress (UGIK 2026) kicked off Tuesday, spotlighting Turkey's rise as a regional startup hub, highlighted by nearly $700 million in early-stage tech investments last year. The event is organized by the youth department of the Turkish NGO Independent Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (MUSIAD), Genc MUSIAD, with Anadolu serving as the global communications partner.
According to Anadolu Agency, the biennial congress, themed "Future: Today," aims to navigate global economic uncertainties through innovation. Burak Daglioglu, president of Turkey's Investment and Finance Office, stated at the opening ceremony that both Turkey and Istanbul serve as hubs for local and international entrepreneurs.
Burhan Ozdemir, president of MUSIAD, addressed the shifting global supply chains and power balances, urging attendees to adopt principled leadership to fill gaps in the ever-changing environment. He emphasized that the coming decades will be significantly influenced by tech firms and ethical rules, suggesting that companies building artificial intelligence (AI) could wield more power than governments. He further noted that those controlling the data economy will shape global culture and politics, positioning young businesspeople as both economic and geopolitical actors.
Magsum Usta, president of Genc MUSIAD, encouraged young entrepreneurs to embrace the "discipline of listening" to build effective leadership and cautioned against impatience. He highlighted that true success comes from consistent effort and ethical practices, rather than overnight leaps.
Omer Faruk Celik, executive chair of UGIK, identified challenges facing youth in the workforce, particularly concerning "self-understanding and identity" and the diminishing "culture of struggle." He warned that the modern era's focus on instant gratification is eroding the spirit of perseverance, advocating for a shift towards a globally responsible youth with an impactful presence.
The opening speeches concluded with a plaque of appreciation presented to Anadolu, received by the agency's finance news director, Mehmet Kadir Kilinc. The congress is set to continue throughout the day with numerous panel discussions.