212 Updates #137 | April 21st
UEZ | Dubai
Last week, Idil and I attended UEZ, the International Economy Summit in Sapanca — our third time joining. UEZ is always a good opportunity to connect with industry leaders across sectors and hear about their international expansions and challenges. There’s a lot to learn from non-tech industries as well.
Each year, we’ve noticed a stronger focus on technology, and this time it was clearly front and center. With the presence of major players in e-commerce, fintech, B2B software, and gaming, it’s clear that our ecosystem isn’t just growing; it’s maturing and steadily gaining relevance.
More importantly, the tone of the conversations has shifted. It’s no longer just about emerging potential. It’s about building sustainable, globally competitive businesses. As always, we walked away with new insights, stronger relationships, and a renewed sense of where the region is headed.
Ali wrote another blog, “Top Quartile VC Returns*: Made in Türkiye”. Yes, you can say I’m biased 🙂, but it is truly a must-read.
Meet the Team
Say hello to Kivanc Aydin, VP at 212. Kivanc joined 212 in December 2024 to run our U.S. operations
Q&A Spotlight:
If you could bring one guest to the 212 annual party, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I’d bring Richard Feynman for a great discussion on the future of technology—his curiosity and sharp thinking would make for a memorable conversation. I would be curious about his take on the future of AI and quantum computing. But if the goal is simply to have a great time, Ricky Gervais would be my pick for his dark humor.
What’s one technology or trend you think is dramatically underrated right now?
It seems like Quantum computing is quietly approaching its breakthrough moment. The theoretical foundation is already in place—all that’s missing are key engineering breakthroughs. Its impact will be profound, transforming everything from drug discovery and cybersecurity to AI, machine learning to finance, reshaping society in ways we have yet to fully grasp.
Kivanc's Picks:
What’s the most unusual or unique investment pitch or experience you’ve ever encountered at 212?
Two Ivy League engineering students once pitched a device that would be placed on the head and, according to them, could alter the brain’s perception of time using alternating currents. They essentially called it a time machine. While it was an interesting concept, they later admitted that their lab experiments had failed, and they ultimately decided not to pursue it.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it helped you at 212?
Warren Buffett once said, “Look for the job you would take if you didn’t need a job.” That advice led me to venture capital, and I enjoy the work that I do every day.Last Week
Investment teams interacted with 81 companies.
Selma attended Lonca's 10th Demo Day.
Zeynep attended Unlu Women Tech Entrepreneurs Academy Meetup.
I was panelist at Para Magazine XIII Entrepreneurship Summit.
Ali was panelist at Agora Fintech.
Idil and I were UEZ (International Economy Summit).
Selma and Zeynep attended BAU Future AI Summit.
Selma attended 6th TechXtile Challenge.
This Week and Next
I will be in Dubai this week for a couple of meetings and attending Dubai AI week events.
Selma and Zeynep will attend Scaling Beyond Borders on Tuesday, April 22nd.
Ali will attend Dragon Hunting Podcast on Thursday, April 24th.
We will be at the Swipeline event next week in Antalya.
Some News
Judge rules Google illegally monopolized adtech, opening door to potential breakup. Who’s next? Read more…
EU Delayed Punishing Apple, Meta Just Before Trade Talks Started. Read more…