The Creators Ventures Accelerator, part of the upcoming 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, has drawn 1,131 applications from content creators and digital startups across more than 70 countries.
The initiative, organised by CreatorsHQ under Visioneers in partnership with 500 Global, aims to identify and nurture promising creator-led startups shaping the future of the content economy.
Set to be showcased at the 1 Billion Followers Summit from January 9 to 11, 2026, the accelerator focuses on helping participants build sustainable businesses through mentorship, skill development, and access to global networks. This year’s summit will take place across Emirates Towers, the Dubai International Financial Centre, and the Museum of the Future under the theme “Content for Good.”
Of the total applications, 609 qualified for the next phase, including 347 content creators and 262 digital startups. India led the submissions, followed by Egypt, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Syria. Twenty applicants will be selected for the inaugural cohort and will undergo a 10-week training programme combining 500 Global’s venture-building expertise with a strong creator economy ecosystem.
Khadija Hussain, Executive Director of Government Communication at the UAE Government Media Office, said the strong global response reflects the UAE’s position as a hub for purposeful content creation and innovation. She noted that the programme provides creators with “a genuine opportunity to become influential business leaders.”
Mei Chel Tan, Managing Partner at 500 Global, highlighted the creator economy’s growing role in driving global innovation and economic value. Finalists of the accelerator will be announced at the summit’s closing ceremony, with funding opportunities of up to AED 50 million to scale their ventures.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
