Mentor Network

60+ founders, investors and industry specialists

Mentor Network

One-to-one mentor sessions matched by expertise in sales, finance, law, product and exports.

Free for programme participants

Mentoring is the backbone of Çimlen programmes. The 60+ mentors in our network are founders who built their own startups, angel investors and industry specialists. Mentors work voluntarily and charge no fee and take no equity from the startup.

How does matching work?

In the first week your programme manager runs a needs analysis with you, then suggests three mentors by expertise, experience and sector. You can also filter the Mentors page yourself and request an introductory meeting.

Session format

  • 45-minute one-to-one meeting (in person or online)
  • A one-page agenda before the session and a written action list afterwards
  • Up to four sessions a month; you can change mentors at any time

Rules

Mentors sign a confidentiality undertaking and disclose conflicts of interest with startups. Mentoring does not replace legal or financial advice; for binding decisions, seek support from the relevant professional.

If you would like to become a mentor, fill in the form; we look for people with at least eight years of experience in their field who can spare at least 20 hours a year.

Scope of service

  • Matching by expertise
  • 45-minute one-to-one sessions
  • Written action list
  • Confidentiality undertaking

Mentor Network — get a quote

Fill in the form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?
Any team solving a technology-based problem with at least one full-time founder can apply. Tohum expects an idea or prototype, Filiz a working MVP and Dal recurring revenue. Incorporation is not required to apply; a company must be formed for the Filiz investment.
How much equity do you take in the Filiz programme?
We take about 7% equity for the 3,000,000 TRY investment, paid in two tranches. No equity is taken in the Tohum and Dal programmes. Details are published on the Programme Model page.
Is there an application fee?
No. The application and the panel interview are free. Desks and mentor support are also free for programme participants.
When are applications concluded?
First screening is concluded within 10 working days. Shortlisted teams are invited to a panel interview; the final decision is communicated within 5 working days after the interview.
Do I have to move to Ankara to join the programme?
No. The weekly bootcamps and mentor sessions are held both in person and online. However, we expect at least one founder to be present at Demo Day and the monthly community meetings. You can also use our Istanbul, Izmir and Eskişehir touchpoints.
WhatsApp +90 312 555 38 00 info@cimlen.com.tr