In a bold move to strengthen the global creator economy, the UAE is teaming up with international venture capital powerhouse 500 Global to launch an exciting new initiative.
Her Excellency Alia AlHammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, alongside Courtney Powell, COO & Managing Partner at 500 Global, are spearheading this collaboration.
Introducing the Creators Ventures Accelerator
The strategic partnership between 500 Global and Creators HQ, Dubai’s thriving content creator hub, has given birth to the Creators Ventures Accelerator.
This initiative is designed to discover and nurture the most promising creator-led startups from around the world, offering them the tools and guidance to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.
A 10-Week Hybrid Program for Creators
The inaugural cohort will welcome up to 20 creators and creator-enablers, offering them a unique 10-week hybrid acceleration program.
Participants will benefit from 500 Global’s venture-building expertise and Creators HQ’s extensive network, resources, and deep understanding of the creator economy.
By the end of the program, creators will be fully equipped to scale and grow their businesses at the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship.
Showcasing Innovation at the 1 Billion Followers Summit
The program will culminate in a high-profile showcase at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, scheduled for January 9–11, 2026.
Here, participants will present their ventures to a global audience of investors, venture capitalists, industry leaders, and corporate partners—a rare opportunity to gain international exposure and potential funding.
Applications for the Creators Ventures Accelerator are open now, offering creators the chance to take their ventures to the next level.
Creators HQ: A Global Hub for Digital Talent
Founded as a Dubai-based, government-backed creative ecosystem, Creators HQ is designed to accelerate the professional growth of content creators while expanding the digital content economy.
Supported by the Content Creators Support Fund, an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the second edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit in 2024, Creators HQ provides state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship programs, workshops, and support for business setup—including access to the prestigious UAE Golden Visa.
The ambitious goal is to attract and house 10,000 influencers in Dubai.
Rapid Growth and Global Impact
In just six months, Creators HQ has welcomed 2,415 active members from 147 countries and attracted 78 international companies from 24 nations to relocate operations to the UAE.
This impressive momentum underscores Dubai’s vision to position itself as a global hub for digital creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
What’s Next for the Creator Economy?
With the launch of the Creators Ventures Accelerator, Dubai is not only nurturing creators locally but also extending its influence globally, empowering talent to transform creativity into thriving businesses.
The next year promises exciting opportunities as the program prepares its inaugural cohort to take the international stage at the 1 Billion Followers Summit.