DCN East Asia Hub Accelerator Program

The Digital Communication Network (DCN) Global is excited to announce the launch of its first Accelerator Program for the DCN East Asia Hub.

This initiative is dedicated to identifying, supporting, and accelerating projects that actively address the pressing challenges of disinformation and the impact of digital technologies in the information ecosystem.

The DCN East Asia Hub Accelerator Program focuses on providing customised technical assistance, ensuring that selected projects gain essential skills, tools, and networks that align with their missions.

Technical Support and Resources

Selected projects will gain access to DCN Global’s technical assistance, with options tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities each project faces. DCN Global will not offer mini-grants or other forms of financial support but rather support the projects in ways that are specific to its overall capacity as a connector of talent and influence. Support categories may include:

• Training in areas such as business model development, finance and communications.
• Opportunities to join relevant exchanges, fellowships, and collaborative networking.
• Access to digital tools, marketing strategies, and promotional support to enhance visibility.

Program Benefits

Participants in the Accelerator Program will benefit from a range of resources to bolster their projects’ success, including:

• Customised Mentoring: Personalised guidance from DCN Global experts tailored to the needs of each project.
• Specialised Training: Access to in-depth training from global experts within the DCN Global network, covering vital areas like business development, digital strategies, and community engagement.
• Community and Networking Opportunities: Connections to an extensive network of professionals, industry experts, and entrepreneurs in the broader DCN Global community.

Eligibility

To qualify for the East Asia Hub Accelerator Program, projects must meet the following standards:

• Geographic and Thematic Focus: Projects must be based in East Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Japan, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, South Korea, Brunei, Mongolia) and directly address issues such as combating disinformation, enhancing media and digital literacy, or improving the quality of the information ecosystem in the region.
• Innovation and Uniqueness: Projects should present innovative and distinctive approaches that contribute meaningfully to the information landscape.
• Feasibility and Planning: Projects must demonstrate clear feasibility within a defined business plan, detailing structured goals and sustainable development pathways.
• Impact and Relevance: Projects should aim to create a substantial, positive impact in the East Asian information space, especially in areas that bolster media integrity, digital literacy, and reliable information.
• Use of Emerging Technologies: Preference will be given to projects that integrate new or developing technologies to ensure project sustainability and relevance in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
• Stage of Development: Only projects that are already operational and in progress will be considered, with particular attention to those that have achieved early milestones and demonstrated scalability.
• Commitment: Teams must fully commit to participating in all program activities, including training sessions, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is December 31, 2024. To learn more and apply, please click here.