In this episode of "Invest in Türkiye Talks," we explore the dynamic world of investment and entrepreneurship with renowned investor and serial entrepreneur Ahu Serter. As the driving force behind several innovative ventures, including Fark Labs, F+ Ventures, and the Arya Women's Investment Platform, Serter's contributions span various domains such as innovation, disruption, mobility solutions, business strategy, the arts, and women-led entrepreneurship. This episode provides invaluable insights for both local and international investors, highlighting the potential of starting projects in Türkiye and the importance of empowering women in the investment sector.
Serter highlights the unique advantages of investing in Türkiye, noting that the country offers an opportunity for investors to launch projects with significantly lower capital compared to Europe or other developed nations. This is especially true in the pre-seed and seed stages of investment, where the barriers to entry are much lower. She emphasizes that Türkiye's vast talent resources and technological capabilities, combined with favorable valuations, create a fertile ground for investment.
Underscoring the significance of globalization in today's business environment, Serter believes that for companies to thrive, they must understand and connect with different markets. This goes beyond simply selling products internationally; it involves creating universal companies that can adapt to various cultural and economic contexts. Serter's vision for Turkish companies is to help them go global, enhancing their competitiveness and long-term sustainability.
Drawing from her extensive experience, Serter shares insights on transforming legacy businesses, particularly in the automotive sector. She discusses integrating new technologies and establishing joint ventures as key strategies for revitalizing traditional industries. By embracing innovation, these businesses can not only survive but also thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. Her approach emphasizes the need for companies to be agile and responsive to market changes, which is crucial for long-term success.
Fostering innovation is essential for driving economic growth and addressing societal challenges. By investing in technologies that contribute to a better future, Serter aims to create a positive impact on both the economy and the community. Her focus on sustainable and socially responsible investments reflects a growing trend among investors who prioritize ethical considerations alongside financial returns.
Through the Arya Women's Investment Platform, she provides the resources and mentorship necessary for women entrepreneurs to succeed in the investment sector. Serter stresses the need for increased female representation in investment roles, including among entrepreneurs and decision-makers. She highlights the establishment of a network of women investors and a venture capital fund dedicated to supporting female-led businesses. This initiative aims not only to increase the number of women in investment but also to create a more inclusive and diverse investment landscape.
In her discussion, Serter offers a unique perspective on return on investment. She suggests that ROI should encompass broader social returns rather than focusing solely on financial gains. This holistic approach to investment aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of social impact in business decisions. Serter believes that by prioritizing social returns, investors can contribute to building a more sustainable and equitable society.