Trade show IBTM World has launched Event Business Accelerator, an investment and mentoring programme for young entrepreneurs.
The programme will give people with an idea, product or service relevant to the events industry the opportunity to participate in an intensive mentoring programme, culminating in a live pitch for funding to a panel of potential investors at IBTM World, which takes place in Barcelona from 19-21 November 2019.
On the first two days of the show the mentees will participate in live pitches to a panel of investors, taking part on a central stage at the heart of the event floor in a new immersive zone, IBTM Accelerate. Designed to attract and nurture entrepreneurial talent, the zone will also incorporate exhibitors and education sessions.
David Thompson, event director, IBTM World, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of Event Business Accelerator. IBTM is committed to paving the way for future industry talent and this initiative, and indeed the entire Accelerate zone, are platforms to do this in a comprehensive and sustained way. The zone will allow us to combine elements from our year-round content, our mentoring scheme, as well as providing opportunities for on-site learning. We very much look forward to announcing more details in due course.”
IBTM Accelerate will feature several interactive discussions; an ‘Influencers of MICE’ series led by ex-MPI president and founder of Word of MICE, Mariska Kesteloo; Future Focus – a series of sessions focusing on the future of the industry, curated by Alistair Turner; and the IBTM World Tech Watch Awards, which will be presented in the zone. Supporters of the new feature zone include Barcelona Convention Bureau, MPI, Word of MICE, Reed Exhibitions, La Salle Ramon Llull University, CETT-UB, Eight PR & Marketing and Reed Exhibitions UK.
Applications for the Event Business Accelerator are now open and will close on 23rd August. IBTM World is inviting submissions from entrepreneurs up to the age of 35, who have a bright idea for an events business, product or service, or who have up to three years’ experience in running their own business related to the events industry. To apply, simply complete the submission form detailing your business proposition. The entries will be scored by a panel of industry judges, with finalists being selected and announced in September.
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
