Chicago-based TechNexus Venture Collaborative and London-based Supernode Global have joined the Next Challenge for Media & Journalism as venture capital partners. Both firms will assist with judging the competition, engage with applicants as industry mentors, and provide free training opportunities to finalists in the four Next Challenge divisions.
“As one of the leading investors in the early-stage media space, we are always looking for ways to discover and support startups pushing the boundaries of content and technology,” said Fred Hoch, Founder and General Partner of TechNexus. “We are excited to roll up our sleeves and work with Next Challenge startups as they define the future of media and civic dialogue.”
“The Next Challenge encompasses two of our primary goals: to invest in the next generation of the digital content ecosystem and in companies that have a positive impact., “ said Phoebe Arkell, principal at Supernode Global. “We think the competition is a fantastic opportunity for mission-driven media companies to showcase their potential and are looking forward to meeting the start-ups.”
TechNexus and Supernode Global will provide free mentorship and training seminars for division finalists based on a survey of applicants in early December. The finalists will identify areas where they need the most support and Next Challenge partners will craft virtual sessions tailored to those needs.
“These new partnerships are about leveraging strategic relationships to accelerate the work of startups in the competition,” said Jeff Freeland Nelson, executive director of Glen Nelson Center, which is organizing the Next Challenge. “Our goal is to provide value to our startups from the moment they apply. Getting to know TechNexus, Supernode Global, and our other media industry partners is one of the immediate benefits of competing in the Next Challenge.”
Applications for the Next Challenge are open through November 19th. For more information visit thenextchallenge.com.