Two leaders of Türkiye’s most well-known conglomerates, Ali Y. Koç, (Koç Holding, Vice Chair of the Board) and Ali Sabancı (Esas Holding, Chairperson), recently came together for a scientific collaboration in the field of alternative investments.

Established through a joint collaboration between Koç University and Esas Holding, Koç University-Esas Center for Alternative Investments (KUES) will be the first research center in Türkiye focusing on alternative investments.

With a global portfolio size of approximately 22 trillion dollars, the field includes investment types such as private equity, venture capital, and real estate. Some global institutions focused on this field includes The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania – Harris Family Alternative Investments Program, The NYU Stern – Alternative Investments Program, The SMU COX School of Business – Alternative Asset Management Center, and The Emory Center for Alternative Investments.

KUES will operate as part of Koç University’s College of Administrative Sciences and Economics and the Graduate School of Business, and will develop talent through its PhD, master’s, and undergraduate programs.

The center aims to raise awareness about alternative investments in Türkiye, encourage scientific research, develop academic programs to nurture qualified human resources in this field, and establish itself as a globally recognized reference point.

In addition to generating data on the subject, KUES will host events and training programs designed for individuals interested in alternative investments. It will serve as a platform to facilitate an ecosystem that brings together academics, industry representatives, investors, policymakers, students, and alumni.

At the opening event, President of Koç University, Prof. Metin Sitti, emphasized the importance of building bridges between universities and the private sector to create value for society. Expressing his gratitude for the merging of Koç University’s scientific expertise with Esas Holding’s extensive experience in alternative investments, Prof. Sitti shared their motivation behind this collaboration:

“We are an institution that prioritizes applying knowledge to real life and contributing to Türkiye’s social and economic development goals. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Due to its young and dynamic population and creative entrepreneurial spirit, Türkiye has a significant potential in the field of alternative investments. To seize this opportunity, academia must take an active role. Universities can lead the way in developing policies for this field and bringing new ideas to life for the benefit of society.”