Their Royal Highnesses recommend this book to entrepeneurs

Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine

Royal Palace, Belgrade

 ‘’We would like to thank to Baybars Altuntas for his great contribution to the global entrepreneurship ecosystem by writing this book. He outlines very practical ideas for would-be entrepreneurs aiming to set up their own businesses, and for entrepreneurs who are growing their businesses.’’
‘’The most important global challenge of the 21st century is creating new jobs for new generations. IT and mobile technology investments are increasing globally, which results in fewer people being recruited for new jobs. Because technology handles so much of the work, there will be less demand for manpower. The only solution to this challenge is to create a different mindset for the young generation. This new mindset is very clear: Set up your own business instead of looking for a job!

We would like to thank to Baybars Altuntas for his great contribution to the global entrepreneurship ecosystem by writing this book. He outlines very practical ideas for would-be entrepreneurs aiming to set up their own businesses, and for entrepreneurs who are growing their businesses. Creating wealth, jobs and social justice are three key concepts of entrepreneurship. This book shows how these can make a real impact on society when they are taken seriously by astute entrepreneurs like Baybars.

This book should be required reading for anyone studying entrepreneurship at university, particularly those students who are aspiring to start their own businesses. Entrepreneurship is the backbone of every successful market economy. Having confidence in oneself is key to successful entrepreneurship. Nothing is impossible.’’

Dr Abdul Malik Al Jaber of United Arab Emirates higly recommends this book for everybody

Founder and Chairman, Arabreneur

‘’He is an amazing inspirational role model who gives people around the world a genuine lesson in optimism.’’

‘’When I’m speaking to young people, specially those from less privileged communities, I tell them “where you start your life may not be up to you, but where you end is in your hands, and no one can stop you”. I have seen this with Baybars. He is an amazing inspirational role model who gives people around the world a genuine lesson in optimism, positive thinking, determination and having faith in your capability to achieve your goals.’’

Albert Colomer of Catalunya enjoyed reading this book very much

President, Business Angels Network of Catalunya (BANC)

‘’If you want to taste this cocktail of entrepreneurship and innovation, you will enjoy this book very much. ‘’

 ‘’Just a taste of this cocktail: the vision of an innovator, the soul of an entrepreneur, the wings of a business angel, the world knowledge of this hearty man, mixed in the correct proportions, served in the Baybars style of living. All these demonstrate, for all to see, the power of determination. If you want to taste this cocktail of entrepreneurship and innovation, you will enjoy this book very much.’’

Alejtin Berisha of Kosovo read this book in one sitting

President, Universum CollegePresident,

Kosovo Business Angels Network

‘’It is one of the rare books that will have you hooked from the first page. ‘’

‘’Off the Bus, Into a Supercar is an inspirational, informative and compelling book for all future entrepreneurs. A truly remarkable story by one of Turkey’s most distinguished entrepreneurs, Off the Bus, into a Supercar shows you the determination, passion and skills required to excel in today’s business world. It is one of the rare books that will have you hooked from the first page, while making sure that you will also learn some of the most important skills in becoming a successful entrepreneur in sales, negotiation and problem solving. A must read!’’

Aleksandar Cabrilo of Serbia: This book is a perfect road map for all entrepreneurs!

President, Serbian Business Angels Network (SBAN)

CEO, High Tech Engineering Center

‘’The American dream is possible everywhere if you really believe in yourself and work hard. ‘’

 ‘’Baybars’ example shows that the American dream is possible everywhere if you really believe in yourself and work hard. This book will motivate many young people to become entrepreneurs and shape the future. Some will also become authors who are referenced in biographies of new global leaders, having being inspired by this story.’’

Aleksandar Tasev of Macedonia: Off the Bus, Into a Supercar shows how to be a dragon entrepreneur in real life.

President, SuperFounders

CEO Balkan Unlimited

‘’Off the Bus, Into a Supercar shows how to be a dragon entrepreneur in real life. ‘’

‘’Plain and simple, Off the Bus, Into a Supercar shows how to be a dragon entrepreneur in real life. The Dragons’ Den star Baybars Altuntas gives us his exhilarating personal story from a humble childhood to global success, accompanied by well-thought-out advice supported by real life examples. Off the Bus, Into a Supercar is not only a recipe for success, but also highly entertaining book for just about anybody, and it is a motivating read for aspiring entrepreneurs. Baybars shows through his personal example how the entrepreneurial voyage “from the bus to the Supercar” can be fun and thrilling!’’

Ali Arslan of Turkey: I strongly recommend this book for entrepreneurs, particularly for those at the beginning of their careers

General Director General Directorate of Financial Sector Relations and Exchange,  

Government of Turkey

 ‘’I strongly recommend this book for entrepreneurs, particularly for those at the beginning of their careers. ‘’

‘’Baybars Altuntas is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an influential writer. Off the Bus, Into a Supercar! will help expand your horizons as a tool to think outside the box and increase the capacity to dream. Mr. Altuntas encourages entrepreneurs and gives significant insight and useful information on how to turn their dreams into a profitable future. The most striking part of the book is the experience lived by the author himself. I strongly recommend this book for all entrepreneurs, particularly those at the beginning of their careers.’’

Amal Daraghmeh Masri, Palestine

Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Middle East Business News & MagazineAwarded

Best Woman Entrepreneur in Middle East and North Africa 

‘’I wish I had had this book to read when I started my business 16 years ago. ‘’

 ‘’As an entrepreneur myself, reading through Baybars’ strong and firm words, I was able to appreciate how these words will shine a guiding light for future young entrepreneurs. At the start of their journey, entrepreneurs need encouraging words, and even this simple requirement is not easy to fulfill. This book addresses that need. I wish I had had it to read when I started my business 16 years ago. The words reflect the generous nature of the writer and his desire to encourage others. He shows a great spirit of willingness to connect entrepreneurs. Well done, Baybars.’’

Anthony Clarke, UK

Founder and CEO, Angel Capital Group

President Emeritus of European Business Angels Association

‘’Baybars’ life story proves it can be done.’’

 ‘’Successful entrepreneurs need not only passion, enthusiasm and belief; they also need courage to turn their dreams into reality. Baybars’ life story proves it can be done and should encourage others like him to follow their dreams.’’

Ari Korhonen, Finland

Founder and CEO, Lagoon Capital

Vice President, European Business Angels Network

‘’This is a book which should be read by all entrepreneurs and angel investors!’’

‘’Baybars Altuntas is a living example of an innovative and dynamic entrepreneur who has shown that everything is possible. He is the Dragon! He met Obama! He is a celebrity! He is writing bestsellers! Baybars has demonstrated to all of us that if there is a will, there is a way. This is a book which should be read by all entrepreneurs and angel investors!’’

Prof Ayse Gul Toker, Turkey

Dean, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences,

Bogazici University  

‘’When you read this book, you will understand that entrepreneurship is not constrained by age or background. Even university students can create a multi-million dollar business from scratch if they have the right mindset.’’

“The academic and social environment at Bogazici University, together with its unique culture, nurture creativity and encourage young minds to start their own business while they are still students. Baybars, a graduate of our University, has become a key player in the entrepreneurship ecosystem both in Turkey and the global arena, and we are extremely proud of his accomplishments.When you read this book, you will understand that entrepreneurship is not constrained by age or background. Even university students can create a multi-million dollar business from scratch if they have the right mindset. Baybars’ book is on the reading list for our entrepreneurship classes, as it provides valuable practical advice on setting up and running a successful business. Highly recommended.”

Candace Johnson, France

President, European Business Angels Network  

‘’His book relates in no small detail each step of his journey.‘’

‘’Baybars Altuntas has had a remarkable personal journey from small businessman to entrepreneur to business angel.  His book relates in no small detail each step of his journey.  It is a fascinating account of one man’s story from rags to riches and how he has helped others achieve their goals as well.’’

Dave Berkus, USA

Chairman Emeritus, Tech Coast Angels

Creator of Berkonomics

Author of Berconomics

 ‘’I’ve written and read numerous books on entrepreneurism. This is one of the very best.’’

‘’I just finished reading this book – and am a Baybars Altuntas fan for life.  Altuntas tells wonderful stories about entrepreneurs, his history as an entrepreneur, and gives priceless advice to others.  He invites us to become wise entrepreneurs, to follow his simple steps in preparation, cautions us about pitfalls, and encourages us to take an appropriate amount of risk.  You’ll smile, even laugh at his stories of success and failure as each teaches a lesson about entrepreneurism.  I’ve written and read numerous books on entrepreneurism. This is one of the very best.!!’’

David Drake, USA

Chairman, LDJ Capital

Columnist of Forbes Magazine, Entrepreneur.com and Huffington Post

Author of The SPPICE of Crowdfunding  

‘’His success, which derives from perseverance and faith, resonates with how I left Sweden to study and build my riches in the US.’’

‘’Baybars is an entrepreneurial inspiration who is the manifestation of the saying “where there is a will there is a way”. Baybars perpetuates the idea that everything is possible. His success, which derives from perseverance and faith, resonates with how I left Sweden to study and build my riches in the US.’’

David S. Rose, USA

Founder, New York Angels

CEO of Gust

Author of the New York Times bestsellerAngel Investing:

The Gust Guide to Making Money & Having Fun Investing in Startups

‘’A rollicking, inspirational and highly personal journey through the life of a self-made business executive who has dedicated much of his career to bringing entrepreneurship to the Near and Middle East.’’

‘’Baybars Altuntaş is an entrepreneurial ball of fire who has almost singlehandedly put Turkey on the global map of innovation centers. His book, Off the Bus, Into a Supercar, is a rollicking, inspirational and highly personal journey through the life of a self-made business executive who has dedicated much of his career to bringing entrepreneurship to the Near and Middle East. The lessons he has learned—and that he now teaches through this spirited, optimistic autobiography—are ones that every aspiring entrepreneur should heed!’’

David Thomas, Australia

Vice President, Australia Chine Business Council

BRIC Expert; Thought Leader

‘’Baybars is an inspiration to entrepreneurs all over the world.’’

‘’Baybars is an inspiration to entrepreneurs all over the world, and particularly in Turkey. Spending a day with Baybars in Istanbul you start to understand his popularity and celebrity status as an Angel Investor and Chief Dragon. Young budding entrepreneurs approach him on the street asking him to sprinkle magic dust on their ideas and encouragement to pursue their dreams. In a new age of entrepreneurialism, innovation and SMEs, the experience, wisdom and courage of people like Baybars will be essential to power the global economy.’’

Dimitris G.E. Tsigos, Greece

President, European Confederation of Young Entrepreneurs and Founders  (YES for Europe)

CEO, StartTech Ventures  

‘’An absolute must-read for anyone who wants to discover the Holy Grail of entrepreneurship’’

 ‘’One of the best basketball players of all times, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, once remarked that “neither the tallest nor the strongest players gets the rebound, but the one who wants it most”. While this inspiring quote is certainly true for basketball, it is probably even more relevant for entrepreneurship. It’s all about determination and all the rest will follow. Baybars Altuntas serves as an outstanding example of what strong will and determination can achieve, even in the most challenging situations. His exciting book Off the Bus, Into a Supercar is an absolute must read for anyone who wants to discover the Holy Grail of entrepreneurship, which is the unparalleled happiness of managing to be creative and useful at the same time.’’

Fadi Ghandour, Jordan

Founder & Vice Chairman

Aramex

‘’An interesting entrepreneurial story full of anecdotes and lessons with lots of passion.’’

 ‘’Entrepreneurship is at the core of addressing the future challenges of societies, whether advanced or in the process of developing. It is a process that should be embraced and nurtured by every society. Altuntas tells us an interesting entrepreneurial story full of anecdotes and lessons with lots of passion. It is enjoyable and easy to read. Check it out.’’

Francisco Banha, Portugal

President, Portuguese Federation of Business Angels Associations (FNABA)

Co-founder and Board Member,World Business Angels Association (WBAA)

Professor of Entrepreneurship – MBA, the Technical University of Lisbon

‘’This excellent book, which I hope can instill in students, entrepreneur candidates, entrepreneurs, and investors looking for opportunities, the necessary inspiration for the creation of new companies. And for current entrepreneurs, it can help foster the evolution of social and economic welfare.’’

‘’Congratulations to Baybars for this excellent book, which I hope can instill in students, entrepreneur candidates, entrepreneurs, and investors looking for opportunities, the necessary inspiration for the creation of new companies. And for current entrepreneurs, it can help foster the evolution of social and economic welfare. And because books are two-way paths, do not miss the opportunity to send feedback to Baybars. Email was created for this very reason.’’

G. Antonio Sosa-Pascual, Puerto Rico

Managing Director, REOF Capital

2013’s Best Talent of Puerto Rico under 40

‘’Great benchmark for entrepreneurs around the world.’’

 ‘’Funny, practical and inspiring. The man walks on water. Great benchmark for entrepreneurs around the world. Could not stop laughing.’’

Gamze Cizreli, Turkey

Founder and CEO, BigChefs Restaurants Franchise Chain

Awarded the Best Woman Entrepreneur of Turkey

TV Star, Dragon of Dragons’ Den

‘’He teaches you different ways of thinking, gives bright ideas and hints, and helps you change your mindset in order to succeed in business.’’

‘’Beyond being an entrepreneur sitting next to me on Dragons’ Den, Baybars is also a talented teacher for young entrepreneurs. Anyone wanting to become an entrepreneur should certainly read this book and benefit from his experience. He teaches you different ways of thinking, gives bright ideas and hints, and helps you change your mindset in order to succeed in business. Most importantly, he encourages you not to give up but to solve the problems you face. There is no other guide demonstrating entrepreneurship so clearly.’’

Hasan Haider, Bahrain

Founder and CEO, the Bahraini Business Angels Organization (TENMOU)

‘’A great promoter of entrepreneurship and angel investment around the world.’’

 ‘’Baybars is a great promoter of entrepreneurship and angel investment around the world, and it is great to read how his own entrepreneurial story started in Turkey. I highly recommend following in the footsteps of this great connector of people.’’

Hedda Pahlson-Moller, Luxembourg

Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship, Sacred Heart UniversityVice Chairman,

Luxembourg Microfinance and Development Board  

‘’A compelling example of the powerful trend of entrepreneurship developing across Turkey – a wave in which Mr Altuntas has taken a clear leadership role and has no intention of slowing down.’’

‘’Contrary to the claim of skeptics, the American dream is alive and well – it just moved to Turkey! Baybars is a living legend in his country, and will certainly not stop there. His story will inspire everyone – he lives the cliché that “nothing is impossible. Baybars’ personal story of ambition and perseverance – with all the requisite and realistic hiccups along the way – will touch each and every aspiring entrepreneur and bring knowing smiles (and flinches) from experienced counterparts. What’s more, there are important messages and calls to action for women entrepreneurs as well as valuable insight on how his faith has been a cornerstone for professional and personal development. For anyone who has experienced the bustling business development activities of Istanbul, Baybars’ story is a compelling example of the powerful trend of entrepreneurship developing across Turkey – a wave in which Mr Altuntas has taken a clear leadership role and has no intention of slowing down.’’

Inderjit Singh, Singapore

Member of Parliament, Government of Singapore

Co-President, World Entrepreneurship Forum

Author of The Art and Science of Entrepreneurship

‘’I encourage all who want to embark on the entrepreneurial road to read the book and to learn from Baybars’ experience.’’

‘’Entrepreneurs face challenges no matter in which part of the world they start their companies. Every successful entrepreneur will tell you that the first step of the journey is transforming the mindset so that one that believes all problems can be solved. In this book, Baybars shares his journey and tells how he succeeded as an entrepreneur and I encourage all who want to embark on the entrepreneurial road to read the book and to learn from Baybars’ experience.’’

Ivar Siimar, Estonia

President, Estonian Business Angels Network (EstBAN)

‘’This book will make you laugh, this book will make you think, but most importantly through his own life experience, Baybars manages to inspire those young would-be entrepreneurs whose starting platform is a dusty village road.’’

‘’Baybars has written something truly wonderful here. It is a must read for all future entrepreneurs who have not yet taken the final leap. All budding entrepreneurs need real-life success stories for inspiration and courage to help them take the first steps. We also need to accept the unavoidability of failures and learn from them. This book will make you laugh, this book will make you think, but most importantly through his own life experience, Baybars manages to inspire those young would-be entrepreneurs whose starting platform is a dusty village road.’’

Jeanette Andersson, Sweden

Business Angels Network Manager, CONNECT

‘’Incredible journey of one of  the key players in the  European Business Angel community’’ 

 ‘’Baybars has played an important role in developing the European Business Angel market and improving cooperation and cross-border investments between the EU and Turkey. His energy and commitment on the EBAN board to develop the business angel market in Europe has made him one of the key players in the European business angels community. It is a great opportunity for all entrepreneurs, existing and potential, to learn about Baybars’ incredible journey for inspiration and motivation.’’

Jesper Jarlbaek, Denmark

President, Business Angels Copenhagen (BAC)

Vice President, Danish Venture Capital Association (DVCA)

Chairman, CataCap Private Equity;  Board Member, Bang & Olufsen A/S

‘’Read the book and you will realize that, with conviction and persistence, anything is possible.’’

 ‘’Baybars’ book proves that true entreprenuership is a universal phenomenon unlimited by boundaries, cultures or age. His very entertaining life story includes a wealth of valuable advice based on personal experience. Baybars’ can-do attitude took him all the way to the White House to meet President Obama. Read the book and you will realize that, with conviction and persistence, anything is possible.’’

John May, USA

Chair Emeritus, Angel Capital Association;

Co-author of Every Business Needs an Angel

‘’Aspiring young  entrepreneurs, you will enjoy this book!’’

‘’Off the Bus, Into a Supercar is more than a personal success story of one entrepreneur’s  accomplishment of  driving himself along life’s highway. It is a roadmap for others to follow as they too try to escape bureaucracy and big company environment and create his or her own  enterprise from their own vision. I have watched Baybars grow and blossom over the last decade and look forward to many great things from his energy and passion, Aspiring young  entrepreneurs, you will enjoy this book!’’

Juan Roure, Spain

Professor of Entrepreneurship, IESE Business School

President of the Spanish Federation of Business Angels Network (AEBAN)

‘’Wonderful history of an outstanding entrepreneur. If you want to learn about real entrepreneurship, you must read this book.’’

‘’Wonderful history of an outstanding entrepreneur. If you want to learn about real entrepreneurship, you must read this book.’’

Konstantin Fokin, Russia

President, National Business Angels Association of Russia

CEO, Centre for Innovation Development of the City of Moscow

‘’His new book is not the usual easily forgotten story but instead, an honest, thoughtful and (even more importantly) an action-provoking testimonial. ‘’

 ‘’Baybars is a serious, 100% passionate doer, the man you can always rely on, a real entrepreneur and risk-taker. His new book is not the usual easily forgotten story but instead, an honest, thoughtful and (even more importantly) an action-provoking testimonial. His experience, his ups and downs, his successes and failures, accompanied by boiling adrenalin will no doubt inspire many young people to do more – think big, work hard, build teams, make their dreams come true. I am sure of this. He did it, and so can you!’’