IBTM World, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ industry tradeshow that returns to Barcelona 19-21 November 2019, has launched an investment and mentoring programme for young entrepreneurs, ‘Event Business Accelerator’.
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.
Event Business Accelerator mentors will support the young entrepreneurs as they develop and scale their ideas and businesses ahead of pitching for funding to help bring their idea to fruition or to grow their existing business.
The live pitches will take part on a central stage at the heart of the show floor in a new immersive zone, IBTM Accelerate.
Designed to attract and nurture entrepreneurial talent, the zone will also incorporate exhibitors and education sessions that will give delegates the opportunity to learn from other successful MICE entrepreneurs and share ideas with their peers.
A series of interactive discussions for the next generation of event planners will be staged in the zone, as well as the IBTM World Tech Watch Awards.
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.”
Applications for the Event Business Accelerator are now open and will close on 23 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.
Entries will be scored by a panel of industry judges, with finalists being selected and announced in September 2019.
