Ford Otosan and its corporate venture capital arm Driventure have launched the “Develop Your City – Kocaeli” program, designed to foster eco-friendly and innovative solutions for urban transportation and smart mobility.
According to a company statement, the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, Kentim Bilişim AŞ, Kocaeli University Technopark, Informatics Valley, and TÜBİTAK Marmara Technopolis. The program brings together local authorities, stakeholders, and entrepreneurs to strengthen regional entrepreneurship and support the development of the mobility ecosystem through collective innovation.
Following earlier editions in Izmir and Ankara, the program’s Kocaeli edition aims to promote smart mobility ideas that address real urban challenges and enhance city life through practical, scalable solutions.
Nine Focus Areas for Urban Mobility Innovation
Entrepreneurs selected for the program will develop ideas within nine focus areas, including:
- Data-driven systems for mobility and transportation
- Passenger transport, service quality, and safety technologies
- Sustainability and net-zero emission solutions
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
- Accessible and inclusive transport technologies
- Urban logistics and smart freight transport
- Active mobility and micro-mobility solutions
- Smart parking management and service systems
- Occupational safety and protective technologies
These projects aim to both improve public service quality and directly enhance the daily lives of residents.
Mentorship and Pilot Testing
Participants will receive mentorship and training from industry experts and will present their projects to a jury composed of public officials and industry representatives. The most promising solutions will be tested through pilot applications across different parts of Kocaeli, with the goal of broader implementation.
Driventure’s Strategic Role
Founded in 2019 as part of Ford Otosan’s innovation and transformation vision, Driventure plays a strategic role in the program. The venture capital firm invests in early-stage startups in mobility technologies, sustainability, artificial intelligence, connected systems, and smart manufacturing. Beyond financial investment, Driventure supports startups with product development guidance, access to Ford Otosan’s technical expertise, and opportunities for collaboration with municipalities and city infrastructure.
Awards and Application Process
The top three projects will be awarded ₺500,000, ₺250,000, and ₺100,000, respectively.
Entrepreneurs will also benefit from business model development support, field testing opportunities, mentorship, and exposure to investors and ecosystem partners.
Applications are open until October 31, 2025, and the program will conclude with a Demo Day, bringing together participants from the public sector, private companies, and the startup ecosystem.
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök