IBC launches Startup Forum to aid fledgling digital firms

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Innovative startups will be given the opportunity to meet with venture capitalists and investors at IBC2017 as part of a new initiative at this year’s show.

The Startup Forum is a new concept for IBC2017 that will bring together startup and high growth digital companies with media executives and investors for a day of keynote presentations, panel sessions, pitching and networking.

The event, which takes place on 17 September, is being organised in association with Finland-based Media Honeypot.

Media Honeypot runs an international conference of the same name and helps media executives identify new business opportunities with emerging technology companies.

Driving change

“New technology has seen media and entertainment business and delivery models transformed,” said IBC Chief Executive Michael Crimp.

“IBC is the place where you find the people driving those changes, which makes it a very attractive venue for investors seeking new business opportunities in the media tech space.

“With IBC’s industry knowledge and Media Honeypot’s experience in matchmaking these organisations, the Startup Forum is a must-attend event for fledgling media businesses and investors.”

Startup Forum: how it works

Startups and growing businesses with innovative digital media or media business-related services such as VR/AR, social media, ad technology, AI, eCommerce, esports, apps or security, search engine marketing, conversion optimisation, AI, machine learning, apps or search engine optimisation are invited to apply to take part in the Startup Forum.

The Media Honeypot and IBC teams will screen the applicants and hand-pick approximately 75 companies which they feel are of most interest to media investors and can therefore reap the most benefits from attending.

Successful applicants can then purchase discounted tickets to attend, gaining the opportunity to pre-arrange meetings with interested media houses, VCs and investors to discuss possible partnerships.

All startups are also welcome to participate also in the Pitching Competition.

Selected participants will pitch their business ideas to industry experts and receive direct feedback from an industry expert in one-to-one sessions.

The five finalists will then pitch on stage. The winning company will receive a cash prize.

Media Honeypot Co-Founder and Chairman Heikki Rotko added: “Media Honeypot serves as a new platform to connect European startups and legacy players to find innovation and foster competitiveness in the European media landscape.

”We are delighted to be working with IBC on this brand-new initiative for 2017.”

As well as networking opportunities, the seminar programme features speakers who will share insights into the latest developments in media technology and how they can be harnessed into successful business opportunities.

Speakers include: