Ankara:Türkiye is set to enhance its startup ecosystem by aiming to double its annual venture capital investment from approximately $500 million to $1 billion. This initiative is part of the 2027 Presidential Annual Program, which also aims to nurture a total of 13 Turkish unicorns, termed as "Turcorns."

According to Anadolu Agency – English, these objectives are designed to improve access to essential financing, boost domestic innovation capacities, and reinforce Türkiye's global competitiveness in the tech sector.

Ankara plans to introduce new investment-based support programs to facilitate the growth of early-stage high-tech firms. The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (Tubitak) has already contributed to this momentum, with 2,844 applications for its entrepreneurship support programs from January to September.

Efforts are also being made to promote the Tech Visa program, targeting remote professionals, global investors, and talent to integrate them into Türkiye's ecosystem. This initiative has received 634 tech startup applications, resulting in 135 approvals and the establishment of around 60 new tech startups in the country.

Additionally, the Competitive Sectors Program, under the EU's Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance, has bolstered domestic research and digital infrastructure with 43 projects totaling $291.2 million during the IPA-II period, with 16 more projects planned with a budget of $65.4 million during the IPA-III period.

Türkiye has also expanded its involvement in the Digital Europe Program, securing $16 million in funding across 21 projects through 118 institutions. The European Digital Innovation Hubs awarded $8.4 million to eight consortia.

Plans are underway to launch a digital platform to streamline bureaucratic processes for tech and innovation-focused startups. Startups awarded a tech startup badge will receive priority access to support, incentives, and procurement, with their offerings integrated into the State Supply Office catalog to enhance commercialization and branding.

Venture capital fund calls, fund-of-funds mechanisms, and co-investment instruments will be available to ensure tech startups can access necessary capital. The Technology and Innovation Fund will continue its active investments through the end of next year.