Yapı Kredi FRWRD and Tenity are joining forces to launch the Yapı Kredi FRWRD Global “Road to DACH Region”, designed to support Turkish startups exploring expansion opportunities in the DACH region and the wider European startup ecosystem.
Built around one of Europe’s leading startup gatherings, Bits & Pretzels 2026 in Munich, the program will help selected startups prepare for international growth through a structured market access journey combining tailored preparation, strategic introductions, and on-the-ground support.
The program is designed for startups that are already building traction locally and are now looking to better understand the realities of entering new markets, building the right network, and navigating conversations with investors, corporates, and ecosystem players in Europe.
Rather than focusing only on event participation, the initiative aims to help founders arrive in Munich prepared, connected, and ready to turn relevant conversations into practical next steps.
Selected startups will receive support across:
- DACH market entry preparation
- Founder-focused masterclasses
- Investor and corporate introductions
- Meeting coordination and on-site support during Bits & Pretzels
- Go-to-market, sales, and fundraising readiness
- Post-event follow-up and ecosystem connections
The program will include deep-dive sessions with each startup, a dedicated masterclass series, personalized outreach preparation, curated meeting pipelines, and support throughout the Bits & Pretzels experience.
The collaboration between Yapı Kredi FRWRD and Tenity reflects a shared commitment to helping Turkish startups strengthen their international positioning and access new opportunities beyond their local market.
Commenting on the launch of the program, Yakup Doğan, Executive Vice President at Yapı Kredi, said:
“Through our FRWRD brand, we have been supporting startups on their growth journeys for years, both in Türkiye and internationally, helping them access global opportunities. Through programs we have delivered across ecosystems such as Estonia, Finland, Portugal, London, and Dubai, we have enabled startups to connect with international investors and business partners.
This year, our focus is on the DACH region, which is not only one of Europe’s strongest economic hubs but also offers significant potential in terms of technology investments, corporate partnerships, and scaling opportunities. Through our FRWRD Global program, we aim to connect startups that are ready to position their products and services in international markets with one of Europe’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.
We will continue to support entrepreneurs in building globally competitive brands that create value and successfully represent Türkiye on the international stage.”
Sabina Babayeva, Head of Hub at Tenity, added:
“The Yapı Kredi FRWRD Global ‘Road to DACH Region’ program brings together the local strength and innovation commitment of Yapı Kredi FRWRD with Tenity’s extensive global ecosystem and deep European network. More than just a market introduction, this collaborative initiative serves as a dedicated launchpad designed to help Turkish startups smoothly transition into international markets.
By combining Yapı Kredi’s regional venture expertise with Tenity’s specialized market-entry frameworks and cross-border connections, the program ensures founders are deeply supported every step of the way—transforming a brief European presence into long-term integration. For ambitious teams, this partnership opens doors to the precise capital, corporate partnerships, and networks needed to confidently navigate international growth and build a lasting, meaningful footprint in the DACH region.”
The program will conclude with a closing Demo Day and ecosystem gathering in Istanbul following Bits & Pretzels 2026.
Applications Are Now Open
Applications for the Yapı Kredi FRWRD Global “Road to DACH Region” are now open. Turkish startups interested in exploring growth opportunities in the DACH region and building meaningful connections across Europe’s innovation ecosystem are encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline: July 5, 2026
Apply here: https://airtable.com/appLY4d1qYmYgd1lh/pagmYA2rGxUftv0e9/form
More details, eligibility criteria, and program updates can be found through Yapı Kredi FRWRD and Tenity channels.
About Yapı Kredi FRWRD
About Yapı Kredi FRWRD Yapı Kredi FRWRD is Yapı Kredi’s innovation brand, bringing together the bank’s entrepreneurship ecosystem and innovation initiatives under a single umbrella. Supporting technology startups from the idea stage through scaling, FRWRD provides access to education, mentorship, financial guidance, API integration opportunities, and investment support, helping founders accelerate growth and unlock new opportunities.
About Tenity
Tenity is a global innovation powerhouse shaping the future of finance and technology.
With hubs across Europe and Asia, Tenity blends venture capital, open innovation and global ecosystem access to create value that compounds. Since launch, it has partnered with over 65 institutions, supported 1,600+ startups, and runs innovation programs in 15+ countries.
Tenity. Fintech makers – and other impossible things
Join the Yapı Kredi FRWRD Global Program and connect with leading innovation hubs, industry experts, and potential partners across the DACH region and Continental Europe.
