Connecting the live music industry
Bridge Conference launches music tech startup accelerator
March24
Bridge Conference has partnered with Jukebox Ventures to launch a startup accelerator programme offering up to £1 million in potential investment for music and technology ventures.
The initiative will form part of the second edition of Bridge Conference, which returns to Croatia’s Adriatic coast from May 27–29, 2026. The event positions itself as a B2B gathering connecting executives from across music, entertainment and technology.
As part of the partnership, Jukebox Ventures will curate the conference’s music tech strand and host an accelerator session focused on early-stage startups. Selected companies will have the opportunity to present directly to investors and industry professionals attending the event, with access to potential funding, mentorship, marketing support and launch strategy development. Participants accepted into the programme will also receive discounted access to the conference.
The event will take place at Petram Resort and Residences in Istria, with organisers highlighting its focus on curated networking and senior-level attendance. According to the conference, a majority of delegates at its inaugural edition held executive roles across agencies, promoters and festivals.
Bridge 2026 will feature a programme exploring the intersection of music, technology and investment, including topics such as AI, artist development and digital innovation. Confirmed speakers include Maria May (Creative Artists Agency), Steve Hogan (WME), Greg Parmley (International Live Music Conference), Holger Jan Schmidt (YOUROPE), Fruzsina Szép (SUPERBLOOM / Lollapalooza Berlin), Sara Bazian (YouTube Music) and Ivan Milivojev (EXIT Festival), among others.
Dusan Kovacevic, co-founder of EXIT Festival and a driving force behind Bridge, said the partnership is designed to connect ideas with investment and decision-makers. He noted that access to the right network remains a key factor in turning concepts into viable businesses.
Alex Jukes, founder of Jukebox Ventures, added that the accelerator aims to support emerging founders through direct industry access and in-person interaction, with a focus on connecting startups to potential backers and collaborators.
The accelerator reflects a broader trend of increased focus on music-tech innovation within the live and entertainment sectors, as conferences expand beyond networking to include funding and startup development initiatives.
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