Startup Grants: How Do TÜBİTAK BiGG, KOSGEB and Development Agencies Work?

For early-stage startups, the cheapest capital is grants and support that need no equity. In Turkey there are three main sources aimed at entrepreneurs: TÜBİTAK programmes (for example 1812 BiGG), KOSGEB entrepreneur supports and the calls of regional development agencies. Amounts, scope and application conditions change with each call; this article offers a general framework and the relevant institution's announcement should be the reference for current terms.

TÜBİTAK 1812 BiGG

A support programme for technology-based, innovative business ideas. The application is reviewed by a panel that evaluates the technical novelty, market potential and team of the idea. The programme is usually run through an approved incubation centre or technology transfer organisation; Çimlen helps startups prepare their application file.

KOSGEB entrepreneur supports

For new entrepreneurs there are programmes that, subject to training and certificate requirements, provide non-repayable support for expenses such as business set-up, machinery-equipment and rent. Terms and rates change with programme updates.

Development agencies

Regional agencies open financial and technical support calls for startups operating in their region. The call calendar needs to be followed regularly.

Five steps before applying

1. Read the call text from start to finish and tick off the eligibility conditions.
2. Explain the level of innovation and the market size of the project with numbers.
3. Prepare a realistic budget; inflated items weigh negatively in evaluation.
4. Write the business plan with a 12-18 month timeline.
5. Do not leave the application to the last day; system congestion causes problems.

Combining grants with equity

A grant does not replace investment; it complements it. Grants finance the prototype and first customer tests, and investment is raised later at a higher valuation. Remember that grant results cannot be guaranteed.

This content is for information only and does not replace financial or legal advice.

Frequent mistakes in applications

• Describing the product instead of the innovation: the panel wants to see the difference from existing solutions.
• Not matching budget items to project activities
• Not stating the time the team will devote to the project
• Not supporting market and customer validation with numbers

How long does it take?

Preparing the application file can take 3-4 weeks for an experienced team and 6-8 weeks for first-time applicants. Evaluation and result times vary by call; during this period do not make the company's cash plan dependent on the grant outcome.