The 2nd GEV Future Summit, organized by the Gedik Education Foundation and Istanbul Gedik University, brought together leading figures in the fields of entrepreneurship, investment, technology, and artificial intelligence at the MEXT Technology Center. Held under the theme “The Ecosystem of the Future: From Entrepreneurship to the Future,” the summit explored the future of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, investment trends, and next-generation business models.
The 2nd GEV Future Summit, organized by the Gedik Education Foundation (GEV) and Istanbul Gedik University, was held on June 3, 2026, at the MEXT Technology Center. Held this year under the theme “The Ecosystem of the Future: From Entrepreneurship to the Future,” the summit brought together Turkey’s leading figures in the fields of entrepreneurship, investment, technology, and artificial intelligence on a single platform.
Addressing topics such as the entrepreneurship ecosystem, startup investments, AI-driven business models, and the transformation of the future business world, the summit created a vibrant space for interaction by bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, academics, business representatives, and technology leaders.
Hosted by Bloomberg HT anchor, journalist, and GEV volunteer Hande Demirel, the event featured expert speakers who shared their insights on entrepreneurship, investment, technology, and innovation with the participants.
Hülya Gedik: “Investing Isn’t Just About Putting in Capital—It’s About Being a Partner on the Journey”
Hülya Gedik, Chair of the Board of Directors of Gedik Holding and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Gedik Education Foundation and Istanbul Gedik University, who delivered the opening remarks at the summit, emphasized that entrepreneurship is not only a key driver of economic growth but also an essential component of social transformation.
In her speech, Hülya Gedik highlighted the Gedik Education Foundation’s education and social impact-focused initiatives, noting that they support women in gaining professional skills, contribute to the development of young people, and believe in the transformative power of education.
Also addressing the GearUp entrepreneurship platform, which was launched at this year’s summit, Hülya Gedik noted that their goal is to create a sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem where young people can turn their ideas into economic value, connect with investors, and develop partnerships.
Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence, and the Startup Ecosystem Were on the Agenda
The panels and special sessions held as part of the summit addressed the following topics:
• The Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
• Entrepreneurship & Investment
• Entrepreneurship & Technology – Artificial Intelligence
• Turkey’s Unicorns and the Startup Ecosystem
• Investor–Entrepreneur B2B Models
These topics were discussed.
Expert speakers provided insights on AI-powered business models, data-driven startups, investment trends, startup scaling processes, and strategies to enhance Turkey’s global competitiveness.
Entrepreneurs and Investors Gathered on the Same Platform with GearUp!
One of the highlights of the summit was the “Entrepreneur & Investor B2B Matchmaking Sessions,” organized in collaboration with GearUp and Inveo Ventures and hosted by startups.watch.
Held in a speed networking format, these meetings allowed entrepreneurs and investors to connect directly and explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities.
Thanks to the networking sessions that took place throughout the day, new connections were made, the foundations for partnerships were laid, and significant steps were taken to contribute to the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
A Platform Contributing to the Ecosystem of the Future
The 2nd GEV Future Summit, which brought together various stakeholders from the worlds of entrepreneurship and investment, concluded as a powerful platform where ideas are transformed into value and connections into opportunities.
The Gedik Education Foundation and Istanbul Gedik University will continue to produce initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, technology, and education to shape the ecosystem of the future, support young people, and create social impact.