MediaFutures runs a support programme for startups, SMEs and artists, selected through a total of three Open Calls.

During the 1st Open Call, running from November 2020 to January 2021, 19 projects were initially selected.

7 startups in the ‘Startups for Citizens’ track, and 7 collaborative projects between startups and artists in the ‘Startup meets Artist’ track participated in the one month START phase to develop their ideas. At the end of this period they had the opportunity to pitch and 7 projects were selected for the BUILD phase: 3 in the ‘Startups for Citizens’ track and 4 in the ‘Startup meets Artist’ track. 5 projects were selected in the ‘Artists for Media’ track and joined the Artist residency programme.

At the end of the programme, participants showcased their projects and artworks in an online DemoDay on 23 September 2021 and a prize of €5,000 for artists and €10,000 for startups was awarded for the most successful contestants, following the decision of a jury.

Projects of the 1st cohort are presented below.