Istanbul Development Agency launches 300 million TL innovation program

The Istanbul Development Agency (ISTKA) has launched its 2026 Financial Support Program for Strengthening the Innovation Economy. The program has allocated a total of 300 million TL to bolster Istanbul’s productive economic ecosystem. Individual projects are eligible to receive funding ranging from 5 million TL to 20 million TL.

The initiative focuses on two primary priorities. The first priority aims to enhance the production capacity of stakeholders within new industries and the cultural ecosystem. This includes developing innovative, sustainable, and scalable infrastructures, platforms, and business models, as well as integrating traditional production with contemporary design.

The second priority focuses on strengthening Istanbul’s urban identity. Supported projects may include the innovative redesign of public spaces, the development of international artist residency programs, the implementation of extended reality (XR) applications in museums and historical sites, and the conversion of idle structures into new production and workspaces.

Applications must be submitted online through the Development Agencies Management System (KAYS). The deadline for submissions is December 4, 2026.