Hey everyone! We’ve now been in Türkiye for four weeks, and while we haven’t been involved in the startup world directly, one thing that’s really caught our eye is just how alive and bustling the business scene is here.

Everywhere you look, there are small shops, street vendors, workshops, cafés, and restaurants, all run by people with entrepreneurial spirit. Whether it’s a tiny family-owned grocery store, a colorful textile shop, or a local bakery, there’s a clear sense that entrepreneurship is part of everyday life.

In the neighborhoods where we’re staying, you can see how many people have turned their passions and skills into businesses. We’ve passed tailor shops offering custom clothes, mechanic garages fixing bikes and cars, and even street food stalls selling fresh simit and çay. It’s inspiring to see so much energy and creativity in these local ventures.

Even in the bigger cities like Ankara and Istanbul, it’s not just big companies, there’s an abundance of small and medium-sized businesses filling the streets and markets. The variety is amazing, from tech repair shops to art galleries, from bookstores to cozy coffee shops where locals hang out.

One thing we’ve noticed is how much business happens in person. Many shop owners are friendly and eager to chat, and bargaining is still a common part of the shopping experience. It feels very personal and community-driven.

It’s clear to us that entrepreneurship here isn’t just about startups or tech hubs, it's woven into the fabric of daily life. People create and run businesses to support their families, serve their communities, and follow their dreams, big or small.

We’re excited to keep observing and learning more about how this spirit of entrepreneurship shapes life in Türkiye over the coming months.

Catch you in the next update!