Ali Yerlikaya: An In-Depth Profile of the Turkish Entrepreneur and Tech Investor

Early Life and Education

Ali Yerlikaya was born in 1973 in Istanbul, Turkey. He developed a passion for technology and entrepreneurship at a young age and completed his electrical engineering degree from Istanbul Technical University. Later, he earned a master's degree in business administration from Sabancı University in Istanbul.

Career in Technology

In 2000, Yerlikaya co-founded his first company, Netgsm, which provided internet access and virtual private network services. The company quickly grew into Turkey's leading internet service provider. Yerlikaya also played a pivotal role in the development of Turkey's internet infrastructure, including the establishment of the Turkish Network Information Center.

Investments and Venture Capital

In 2007, Yerlikaya founded Earlybird Venture Capital, one of Turkey's first venture capital firms. Earlybird invests in early-stage technology companies and has supported notable startups such as Hepsiburada, Peak Games, and Getir. Yerlikaya's insights and mentorship have been instrumental in the growth and success of many entrepreneurs.

Public and Social Impact

Yerlikaya is a vocal advocate for entrepreneurship and innovation in Turkey. He has served as chairman of the Turkish Informatics Industry Association and is a founding member of the Endeavor Turkey Mentorship Network. He supports educational initiatives and mentorship programs to foster a new generation of entrepreneurs in Turkey.

Awards and Recognition

Yerlikaya's contributions to the Turkish tech industry have been widely recognized. He has received the "Entrepreneur of the Year" award from the Turkish Industry and Business Association and the "Young Businessman of the Year" award from the Junior Chamber International Turkey. In 2019, he was appointed as a global ambassador to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

Current Ventures

Yerlikaya remains actively involved in various technology and investment ventures. He is the founder and chairman of Innova, a leading provider of smart city solutions, and a partner in London-based venture capital firm, Northzone. Yerlikaya's continued involvement in the tech ecosystem demonstrates his unwavering commitment to innovation and driving economic growth.