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 program focuses on providing customized 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:
Customized Mentoring: Personalized guidance from DCN Global experts tailored to the needs of each project.
Specialized 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.
To further incentivize growth, projects may be offered a fellowship with a prestigious organization or participation in an exchange, providing enhanced exposure and development opportunities.
Phased Program Structure
Application and Selection: Applicants are carefully screened based on eligibility and criteria outlined below, with a focus on innovative and impactful solutions. An initial discussion will follow with the project according to the acceleration process.
Project Development: Selected project(s) will work with DCN Global and specialized mentors on project refinement, scalability, and sustainability for a period of one year. They will connect with a diverse pool of professionals and compatible projects globally. The project will increase visibility through DCN Global network and communication tools.
Project Graduation: After the initial year, the project and its progress will be showcased during a DCN event and through DCN communication channels and future collaboration, if any, will be explored within mutually agreed parameters.
Eligibility Criteria
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.
DCN Global is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive cohort and encourages applicants who bring forward-thinking, actionable solutions for positive change in East Asia.
Evaluation Criteria
Eligible projects will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Problem Definition: Clear articulation of the issue the project addresses.
Impact and Originality: Demonstrated need for the product or service in the market, supported by external insights.
Team Composition: Skills and capacity of the team to tackle the identified problem.
Scalability: Potential for the project to grow and reach broader audiences.
Progress and Milestones: Achievements and development since project launch.
Showing areas of technical support compatible with DCN that are needed: Explaining the needs without suggesting ways to achieve them
The application process will include explicit questions reflecting each criterion to ensure alignment with the program's goals.
Program Timeline
- November 1, 2024: Applications Open
- December 31, 2024: Applications Close (Interviews with the top 5 finalists)
- January 10, 2025: Announcement of the Selected Project(s)
- February 3-4, 2025: Kick-off in Manila, Philippines where the representative(s) of the awarded project will be invited and introduced. A brainstorming session with DCN staff will take place
Following an initial kick-off in Manila, Philippines, the selected projects will participate in an extended support program, tailored to meet their specific needs throughout the year. While further details on timing will remain flexible to accommodate individual project requirements, all activities will aim to prepare participants for future DCN Global events, including a potential showcase in January 2026.
This Accelerator Program represents a vital opportunity for projects in East Asia to gain the skills, networks, and visibility needed to expand their reach and effectiveness. DCN Global invites eligible teams to apply and become part of this impactful initiative, advancing the fight against disinformation in the region.
Ready to Accelerate Your Impact?
If your project is ready to scale and you’re committed to combating disinformation in East Asia, we encourage you to apply. Don’t miss this chance to gain invaluable knowledge, mentorship, and the opportunity to connect with a global network of experts and peers. Apply now by filling out this form!