AI-Driven Cybersecurity Firms in Türkiye Secure New Funding as Ecosystem Expands
ISTANBUL – Investment in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cybersecurity solutions is gaining momentum in Türkiye, with recent funding rounds and new accelerator programs signaling a growing focus on bolstering the nation’s digital defenses. Two Turkish fintech companies, GoWit and Onlayer, have recently secured fresh capital to expand their AI-focused technologies and international reach.
Onlayer, a merchant monitoring service provider, recently achieved a milestone as the first licensed provider accredited by global card schemes in both Türkiye and Europe. The company intends to use the new funding to accelerate growth in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions.
Simultaneously occurring, the Mastercard lighthouse Türkiye x EBRD Star Venture Startup Acceleration Program is currently accepting applications for its second cycle, aiming to further cultivate the country’s fintech ecosystem. Entrepreneurs can apply via turkiyelighthouse.com until Sunday. Six startups will be selected in December and will receive mentorship from Mastercard executives,collaboration opportunities with strategic partners,and access to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Progress’s (EBRD) investor network.
The program offers an 18-month comprehensive guidance structure,begining with a three-month Mastercard Lighthouse Türkiye track followed by up to 15 months of EBRD Star Venture support. each selected startup will also receive a 50,000-euro ($57,728) fund from the EBRD to support consultancy projects and international event participation.
Launched in 2018 across the Nordic and Baltic regions, the Mastercard Lighthouse program has facilitated over 300 partnerships and channeled more than 1.2 billion euros in investments. The Türkiye iteration, launched in 2024, aims to connect startups with financial support and accelerate fundraising.
