Thematic Acceleration Program

What is a Thematic Acceleration Program?

This program, which we will implement as KADEM, is one of the activities of the Women in Innovation Program, launched with the grant support of the Istanbul Development Agency. The Thematic Acceleration Program supports female entrepreneurs and university technology teams composed of young women working in the fields of food and biotechnology. The program aims to help women successfully grow their businesses, strengthen their position in the sector, and contribute to increasing diversity in these fields.

Applications are evaluated by a jury composed of ecosystem stakeholders who are experts in their field, based on criteria such as entrepreneurial potential, business model innovation, market potential, and team qualifications. As a result of the evaluation, 10 university technology teams in the idea stage and 10 female entrepreneurs in the pre-incubation category qualify to participate in the program. Selected participants benefit from numerous opportunities, ranging from entrepreneurship training and mentoring support to networking opportunities with corporate firms and potential investors, enabling them to build a strong business network.

At the end of the two-day program, the top three projects in each category are selected. The Women in Innovation Accelerator Program supports women entrepreneurs and young women in university technology teams, helping them take stronger steps toward the future.

Applications for the program are accepted via inovasyondakadin.org. All women entrepreneurs who want to make their mark on the future can apply to the program until April 26.

Who Can Apply for the Thematic Acceleration Program?

University technology teams consisting of young women in the idea stage working in the field of food and biotechnology, as well as women-led startups in the pre-incubation stage, can apply to the Thematic Acceleration Program.

University Technology Teams in the Idea Stage:

This is for university technology team candidates who have an innovative business idea and want to become entrepreneurs by turning this idea into a business model. Teams are eligible to participate in the program with 2 people.

Pre-Incubation Level Entrepreneurs:

For entrepreneurs who have turned their innovative business idea into a product and want to meet with customer networks and investors. Entrepreneurs are eligible to participate in the program as individuals.

Support We Provide Within the Program:

• Entrepreneurship Training,
• Mentorship,
• Investor Meetings,
• Meetings with Corporate Companies,
• Networking,
• Consulting

Finalist Awards

A total of 6 finalists, including 3 university technology teams in the idea stage and 3 entrepreneurs in the pre-incubation stage, will be eligible to use the awards.

Idea Stage Category

Online Mentoring Support:

Teams are provided with 5 weeks of online mentoring services, offering guidance through experienced mentors.

Intellectual and Industrial Property Rights Consultancy:

Teams are provided with a consultancy service for 1 year on protecting and managing intellectual property rights.

Shared Workspace Office:

The top 3 teams are provided with a shared workspace office for 1 year, increasing opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Pre-Incubation Category

Online Mentoring Support:

Teams are provided with 5 weeks of online mentoring services, offering guidance through experienced mentors.

Intellectual and Industrial Property Rights Consultancy:

Entrepreneurs receive consultancy support related to intellectual property protection for 1 year.

Shared Workspace Office:

The top 3 entrepreneurs are provided with a shared workspace office for 1 year.

Right to Participate in the Women’s Entrepreneurship Camp in Innovation:

The entrepreneur who ranks first in the pre-incubation category wins the right to participate in the 2025 Women’s Entrepreneurship Camp in Innovation.