The Media Lab Bayern has a brand-new program for young, growing companies in the starting blocks. The Media Scale-up Fellowship is aimed at media startups that are already active in the market and headquartered in Bavaria. They receive needs-based support with coaching and workshops on various topics such as financial planning, growth marketing, sales, investor readiness, and strategic partnerships. It also addresses questions about company development and leadership.
The program runs for a total of nine months and includes funding of €50,000. It begins with an intensive 1:1 coaching phase to develop a suitable growth strategy and define fixed goals and priorities. Subsequent coaching sessions and workshops are then based on these established milestones. The funding is paid out in installments. One portion is paid upon acceptance into the program, and the remainder upon achievement of the specified growth goals within the program term.
The Media Scale-up Fellows also benefit from the extensive network within the media industry. The Media Lab Bayern provides support through introductions to relevant companies and access to conferences and other industry events. Participating startups can also expect access to the Media Lab's founder community and contacts with relevant VCs and investors.
Who can apply for the Media Scale-up Fellowship?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- The startup deals with solutions for the media industry, for example in the areas of AI, VR/AR, data & analytics software.
- The startup has already generated initial revenues that do not come exclusively from project business.
- The startup must be a company registered in the commercial register and based in Bavaria.
- The year of establishment should be no more than four years ago.
- At least two founders work full-time in the company.
How does the application work?
Selection for the program takes place in several stages, with each step intended to provide both sides with new insights.
Step 1: Application
Interested startups can submit their applications until October 6. An initial selection process will then take place.
Step 2: Check
Individual appointments will be scheduled throughout October, during which a growth coach will examine the business model in detail.
Step 3: Selection day
A half-day workshop will take place on November 15, followed by the grand finale with a pitch to the jury. The jury will decide on the day who will be selected for the Media Scale-up Fellowship. The program officially starts on December 2, 2024.
