Lonca Startup Acceleration Program

Lonca Entrepreneurship Center was established to support technology‑focused startups with scalable business models in growing sustainably and strengthening their commercial activities. The program aims to help startups develop their business models, establish corporate partnerships, and accelerate their scale‑up journeys.

Without being limited to a specific sector, Lonca is open to technology‑based startups that have growth potential and scalable business models. Applications to join the program are accepted throughout the year, and during the evaluation process, both the current status of the startup and its development potential are taken into consideration.

• A project‑focused team with the knowledge and experience to turn the project into reality

• A working prototype that has gone beyond the idea stage, even if the product is not yet fully ready

Due to the structure of the program, projects that are still only at the idea stage and have not yet moved into the product or service development phase are not prioritized.

Applications go through a multi‑stage evaluation process. In the preliminary evaluation phase, the clarity of the solution offered by the startup, the sustainability of its business model, the team structure and its growth potential are examined.

Startups that successfully pass the preliminary evaluation are invited to the jury stage. At this stage, they have the opportunity to present their projects and receive feedback from jury members consisting of industry experts, ecosystem stakeholders and the bank’s senior management.

As a result of the jury evaluation, approximately 11 startups that are the most appreciated and best aligned with the program’s objectives are selected to join the program in the relevant term.

Throughout the evaluation process, the startups’ openness to collaboration, their attitude toward development, and their willingness to actively participate in the program are also taken into consideration.

Great importance is attached to the training program throughout the Lonca processes. Services are provided by experts and specialized companies in the areas where entrepreneurs need the most support.

Within the Lonca processes, at the end of each month, startups come together with the Lonca Management Committee to hold Evaluation Meetings. These meetings are organized to track KPIs, discuss targets, gather feedback on the processes, and listen directly to the startups’ needs.

Within the Lonca processes, a cash grant budget of 250,000 TL is allocated for each startup. In addition, entrepreneurs engaged in R&D activities are provided with an extra 50,000 TL to support their operations.

At the end of the Lonca program, startups that successfully complete the process take the stage at the Demo Day event, where they present their products and teams. This Demo Day marks the conclusion of the Lonca journey.