Turkish unicorn Insider targets US market with $5B valuation goal

Software company Insider, one of Türkiye’s first unicorn companies, plans to involve an initial public offering in the U.S. trade market with a $5 billion valuation goal, CEO Hande Cilingir stated.

The term “unicorn” is usually used for a privately held startup valued at $1 billion or more.

Cilingir outlined the company’s ambitions, stating, “Our primary goal is to enhance brand value,” with a target valuation of $5 billion or more. While the timeline remains flexible, the public offering is tentatively set for 2026.

Backed by Endeavor, an entrepreneurship company, Insider recently completed its Series E funding round, led by General Atlantic. The $500 million investment marks the largest ever secured by a marketing technology company in Europe.

During a press briefing with Endeavor Türkiye Chairman Emre Kurttepeli and Secretary General Asli Kurul Turkmen, Cilingir shared insights into the company’s strategy.

Cilingir emphasized a portion of the $500 million investment allocated to angel investors, with the remaining funds set aside for acquiring companies abroad.

‘Connecting emotionally through technology’

Highlighting Insider’s core focus, Cilingir stated: “We process data to make meaningful predictions about future user preferences. We are a technology company that establishes an emotional connection with its users. Our goal is to bring our AI product roadmap, which pioneers customer experiences, to life.”

Insider provides personalized omnichannel experiences and customer engagement solutions for over 1,500 brands, operating across five continents and 28 countries.

The company’s client portfolio spans diverse sectors such as retail, automotive, travel, and telecommunications, including global names like Nike, Samsung, L’Oréal, Unilever, Allianz, Walt Disney, ING Group, Toyota, Singapore Airlines and GAP.