DUBAI (ALETIHAD)

The “1 Billion Followers Summit”, the first of its kind and world’s largest gathering of content creators, extended the deadline for accepting submissions to its ‘1 Billion Pitches’ competition, a first-of-its-kind programme, until October 5, 2024.

The competition offers startups and entrepreneurs a unique platform to pitch their groundbreaking ideas for the content industry to a distinguished panel of investors and international experts. Winners will gain access to invaluable support, including funding and resources, to propel their business ideas forward.

Growing Response

The extension comes as a result of the enthusiastic response from startups and content creators, providing more opportunities for those eager to showcase their creativity. This competition will be a key highlight of the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, taking place in Dubai from January 11 - 13, 2025, under the theme "Content for Good."

To be eligible for the "1 Billion Pitches" competition, applicants must have a registered business and be at least 18 years old. Aspiring startup founders and content creators are encouraged to submit their ideas through the Summit's official website: www.1billionsummit.com.

Applications will undergo a rigorous evaluation process to ensure alignment with the program's requirements and objectives. A panel of judges will shortlist candidates based on the specific criteria, including innovation, feasibility, quality of the pitch, market potential, creativity, scalability, potential social and economic impact, and the applicant's leadership capabilities.

Selected entrants will embark on a journey of mentorship and development through a specialised programme organised by the 1 Billion Followers Summit. This programme will empower them to refine their pitches and maximize their chances of success.

The competition itself, taking place during the Summit in January, features three exciting stages. Initially, 25 applicants will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas. The field will then narrow to 10 for the second stage, ultimately culminating in a final round where two finalists will go head-to-head, vying for the first and second places, to win invaluable support, including potential funding and strategic partnerships.

With its sights set on inspiring a billion-strong audience, the 1 Billion Followers Summit brings together the world's leading content creators and social media pioneers to explore how new media, as a powerful creative industry, can fuel national economies and advance sustainable development goals worldwide.