Founders wanted! The Börsenvereinsgruppe (German Publishers and Booksellers Association Group) is launching the third instalment of its CONTENTshift programme designed to foster startups in the book and media industry. The three-month international accelerator brings together investors, founders and industry experts to explore and refine innovative new business models. Founders are given the opportunity to have their business models validated and fine-tuned while also gaining direct access to a network of high-ranking decision makers. Established industry players are able profit from direct contact to innovative startups as well as quick and curated access to fresh ideas.Startups from all over the world are invited to apply as of today until 30 May.
“CONTENTshift has already experienced two successful rounds. In the past years, the accelerator was able to effectively link founders, established companies and investors. In 2018, we will once again provide startups with the tools they need to refine their business models. At the same time, the industry will be exposed to fresh new ideas and market strategies,” noted Detlef Büttner, board member of Börsenverein des Deutschen Buchhandels (German Publishers and Booksellers Association), managing director of Lehmanns Media GmbH and CONTENTshift jury member.
Industry players who participate in CONTENTshift are asked to invest 10,000 euros each; in return, they receive a spot on the jury as well as direct contact to the startups. The companies supporting the programme in 2018 include Hugendubel, MANZsche Verlags- und Universitätsbuchhandlung and Thalia. The Börsenvereinsgruppe will also have professional advisors on hand to ensure that the participating companies can draw from a pool of qualified startups. Other European media associations are also supporting the accelerator.
The programme for the five final candidates will begin on 2 July 2018. In the course of the competition, each startup will receive comprehensive coaching and advice from experts. The jury will consist of the sponsoring companies as well as representatives of the Börsenvereinsgruppe. The centrepiece of the competition is a joint “Workshop Weekend” in September involving jury members and startups. The final pitches will take place at the 2018 Frankfurt Book Fair in October. And, finally, the award ceremony honouring the “Startup of the Year” will take place on 11 October 2018 at the Book Fair's THE ARTS+-Runway, with the winning startup receiving 10,000 euros in funding.