A Multifaceted Program Shaping the Mobility Ecosystem
Ford Otosan Driventure This program, implemented in partnership with Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, Kentim Bilişim AŞ, Kocaeli University Technopark, Bilişim Vadisi, and TÜBİTAK Marmara Teknokent, brings innovative entrepreneurs who aim to transform city life into the field. The project focuses on the needs of local governments and provides a strong platform for implementing smart mobility solutions. Following successful models implemented in İzmir and Ankara, this time it takes the stage in Kocaeli, developing entrepreneurs focused on real-world urban problems, under the guidance of mentors. Entrepreneurs participating in the program are transforming their ideas into concrete prototypes in nine different focus areas, creating solutions that make urban life easier, increase security, and strengthen sustainability.
9 focus areas The following topics were identified: mobility and data-based systems, passenger transport and safety technologies, sustainability and zero-emission solutions, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), barrier-free and inclusive transportation technologies, urban logistics and smart freight solutions, active transportation and micromobility solutions, smart parking management and service systems, and occupational safety and protective technologies. Each of these is designed to improve the fundamental dynamics of city life and aims to produce applicable solutions. This increases the quality of public services and creates direct positive impacts on citizens' daily lives.
Entrepreneurial journey Throughout the program, participants develop their ideas with expert mentors and trainers. The program offers the opportunity to develop field-applicable prototypes and test them through pilot applications. In the final phase, startups present their projects to a jury comprised of public administrators and industry representatives. This process strengthens participants' competencies in both technical and business development, investment relations, and user experience. The goal is to expand scalable solutions by implementing pilot applications in various regions.
Investment support for startups Driventure's strategic role, in line with Ford Otosan's innovation vision, encompasses financial support and collaboration opportunities for early-stage startups. These startups gain access to product development, investment processes, and Ford Otosan's technical expertise. This allows ideas to take shape as integrated solutions with real users, municipal units, and city infrastructure. This interaction both enhances the market relevance of products and strengthens the potential for corporate collaboration.
Application process and awards The program's benefits include business model development support, field testing and pilot implementation, a development process with expert mentors, presentations to a jury and investors, and opportunities to collaborate with ecosystem partners. The top three projects will receive awards of 500.000 TL, 250.000 TL, and 100.000 TL, respectively. The application period is open until October 31, 2025. The program concludes with a Demo Day, featuring public, private, and ecosystem stakeholders. This structure accelerates entrepreneurs' investment and user feedback processes and strengthens the real-world impact of their solutions.
