Türkiye’s fintech accelerator aims to cultivate new startup

A new initiative in Türkiye is aiming to propel local financial technology startups onto the global stage. Dijitalpark Teknokent, a key technology development zone, has officially launched FINEXT 2025, a thematic accelerator program focused on cultivating the next generation of fintech innovators and potential unicorn companies from within the nation.

The FINEXT program is structured as an intensive 14-week journey for entrepreneurs ready to commercialize their innovative ideas. Participants gain access to a comprehensive support system designed to accelerate their growth. This includes specialized mentorship, mini-MBA training sessions, direct meetings with potential investors, cloud infrastructure credits, and pathways to international collaboration networks, providing a solid foundation for scaling their businesses.

The program builds on a successful track record within Türkiye’s tech ecosystem. “With new startups, we can say that Türkiye has become a financial technologies hub,” stated Tahsin Engin, General Manager of Dijitalpark Teknokent. He highlighted the critical role of technology parks, noting, “Seven unicorns have emerged in our country. A large portion of these unicorns took their first steps in tech parks.” The FINEXT program is positioned to be a significant driver within this successful structure.

This domestic push occurs against the backdrop of a massive global fintech industry, which reached a value of $218.8 billion last year. Türkiye’s own fintech sector, currently valued at $194 million and home to over 900 companies, represents a fertile ground for growth. By targeting this high-potential market, the FINEXT program aims to develop solutions that can compete internationally and increase Türkiye’s share in the worldwide financial technologies landscape.