ISTANBUL: Launch of the FINEXT Fintech Program
Dijitalpark Teknokent, a prominent Turkish technology development zone, has unveiled the 2025 iteration of its fintech thematic program, FINEXT. This initiative aims to foster innovation and enhance the capabilities of local startups in the startup ecosystem.
Following a successful launch last year, the program targets the creation of new financial technology unicorns this year. A unicorn is defined as a private startup with a market valuation exceeding $1 billion, a milestone sought by many ambitious young companies.
According to recent industry reports, the global fintech market reached an impressive $218.8 billion in the previous year, while Turkey’s own fintech sector is projected to grow to $194 million in 2024. Currently, there are over 900 fintech companies operating within the country, showcasing a vibrant and rapidly expanding market.
The FINEXT program is designed to accelerate the growth of startups by integrating them into an intensive 14-week accelerator program. This framework equips entrepreneurs with innovative resources aimed at transforming their ideas into realities that make a global impact in the fintech arena.
Participants in the program will enjoy a multitude of benefits, including personalized mentoring, mini-MBA training, investor meetings, cloud infrastructure support, and access to international collaboration networks—all crucial for scaling their businesses and navigating the complexities of the fintech landscape.
Tahsin Engin, the General Director of Dijitalpark Teknokent, emphasized the significance of fintech innovation in Turkey during the program’s opening ceremony. “With new startups, we can confidently assert that Turkey has emerged as a financial technology hub,” he stated. Engin noted that seven unicorns have originated in the country, many of which began their journeys in technology parks like Dijitalpark.
In conclusion, the FINEXT program not only supports aspiring fintech entrepreneurs but also positions itself as a critical component of Turkey’s growing reputation as a leader in financial technology. With continued investment and nurturing of local talent, the future looks promising for startups in the Turkish fintech landscape.