DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES -- 500 Global, one of the world’s most active Silicon Valley-based venture capital firms, and Creators HQ, the first content creator hub in the UAE and the Middle East enabling the creator ecosystem globally, announced the Creators Ventures Accelerator program is building and supporting creator-led startups collectively valued at over US$130 million.

The Creators Ventures Accelerator received over 1,100 applications from content creators and technology startup founders across more than 70 countries. Following a competitive selection process, 21 creators and founders were chosen for the program. This cohort serves a community of 20M+ followers, subscribers, and users across platforms.

“Creators represent a growing class of bona fide entrepreneurs, with 50 million creators globally, projected to grow at 10-20% annually over the next 5 years. The first iteration of this industry was built on visibility and virality to monetize. With consumers getting savvier and more discerning, we believe the new means to commercialization will belong to those who are focused on business fundamentals, deep community engagement, quality content, diversified strategies, and building with long-term vision and product-market fit. We’re proud to be enabling and supporting this cohort of creators and founders on this journey, across diversified sectors such as marketing, finance, education, healthcare, consumer, and media & entertainment,” said Courtney Powell, COO at 500 Global.