Startup scouting, innovation challenges and 8-12 week pilot projects for corporate partners.
On request
Corporate Open Innovation lets companies quickly try new products, processes and business models by working with external technology startups. Çimlen acts as a neutral bridge between the corporate partner and the startup.
How does it work?
- Problem definition: In a one-day workshop with the company's business units, two or three problems to be solved are clarified.
- Startup scouting: 20-30 startups from our alumni and external network are screened; five or six are shortlisted.
- Pilot: An 8-12 week pilot; success criteria are written down in advance.
- Scaling: A successful pilot is converted into a commercial contract.
Benefits for corporates
- Fast experimentation without building an R&D unit
- Working with pre-validated startups
- No obligation to take equity or IP in the startup
Benefits for startups
A first corporate customer reference, testing with real data and the chance of a commercial contract afterwards. Ownership and confidentiality terms are written down at the outset of the pilot.
The programme runs with 25 corporate partners in banking, energy, retail and healthcare.
Scope of service
- Corporate problem workshop
- Screening of 20-30 startups
- 8-12 week pilot
- No equity or IP obligation
Corporate Open Innovation — get a quote
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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.