1 Billion Pitches invites ideas from startups, content creators

Image: WAM

The New Media Academy has opened submissions for the “1 Billion Pitches” competition, a programme set to feature prominently at the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2024 in Dubai.

The competition offers startups and content creators worldwide an opportunity to present innovative and disruptive ideas to leading investors and industry players.

Participants stand a chance to secure crucial support and funding for their ventures, aligning with the summit’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving growth in the dynamic content creation landscape.

Submissions open

Entry submissions for the ‘1 Billion Pitches’ competition are open until September 20, with the summit scheduled to take place from January 11 to 13, 2025.

The top 25 entrants will be selected to embark on a specialised mentorship and training programme led by industry veterans, equipping them with skills to refine their pitches ahead of the live event.

“We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs in their journey to excel and stand out in the world of media,” said Alia AlHammadi, CEO of the New Media Academy. “The I Billion Pitches competition opens new horizons of growth while offering exceptional exposure to top investors. Such support ensures the launch of projects that contribute to economic and social development, and to a more prosperous and sustainable future.”

1 Billion Pitches: Eligibility

Eligible applicants must have a registered business and be at least 18 years old. Each startup can submit one business idea, which will undergo rigorous evaluation to meet the competition’s criteria.

A panel of judges comprising key investors and international experts will select the top 25 applications. Ten submissions, chosen through judges and audience voting, will advance to the second stage of the competition.

Pitches will be evaluated based on innovation, feasibility, market potential, creativity, scalability, social and economic impact, leadership capabilities, financial potential, and attractiveness to future investors.

The competition will culminate with two winning pitches. Upon completing a set of challenges in the third stage, the winners will receive support including potential funding, strategic partnerships, and ongoing mentorship to help scale their ventures.

Under the theme “Content for Good,” the 1 Billion Followers Summit aims to showcase the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global hub for creative innovation. The event brings together leading content creators, industry pioneers, and top brands, reaching an audience of over one billion.

The summit aims to explore the power of new media in driving economic growth, societal progress, and sustainable development.

Read: Dubai SME CEO Abdul Baset Al Janahi on building a global business hub