Media & Advertising Innovation Platform
Media & Advertising
About the Program
Our Media & Advertising innovation platform connects forward-thinking corporations with global startups, transforming the future of media. From AI in media and retail media solutions to personalized content delivery, join our platform to accelerate your advertising innovation strategy and stay ahead in this fast-paced industry.
vertical launched
vertical launched
offices worldwide
offices worldwide
startups accelerated
startups accelerated
investments
investments
AI Innovation in Media & Advertising
Personalization and automation are now standard. AI and advertising are inseparable, and early adopters are capturing audience attention and ad spend that competitors can’t win back.
The Rise of Retail Media
As first-party data becomes king, retail media networks are exploding. Startups provide the infrastructure to build, scale, and optimize these new high-margin revenue streams, fueling innovation in advertising.
Audiences Demand Immersive Experiences
From gaming and e-sports to interactive content, audiences demand more. True innovation in advertising and media means partnering with startups that have already cracked the code on engagement.
How it Works
Our proven methodology compresses the innovation cycle from years to weeks, delivering tangible results your leadership team can act on.
Inside the Media & Advertising Innovation Program
Your Innovation JourneyDefine Your Innovation Agenda
We work with your team to identify priority advertising innovation challenges and goals, from AI in advertising to content delivery.
Curated Startup Introductions
We help our partners narrow down challenges and have one-on-one meetings with startups exclusively sourced for them.
Rapid Pilot & Validation
Run fast, structured pilots with startups that match your use case. Our team facilitates the process, so your team gets proof of concept in weeks, not quarters.
Scale What Works
Convert pilots into commercial partnerships, with continued support from Plug and Play to manage long-term startup relationships.
Industry Events
Our partners gain access to industry-specific events curated for their interests throughout the program.
Expos & Summits
Programs conclude with an Expo or Summit, where all batch startups present to a broader audience.
Areas of Expertise
Our Focus Areas
Advertising Networks
Advertising networks connect advertisers with publishers to reach target audiences effectively. By utilizing these networks, businesses can expand their reach and drive brand visibility across various platforms. This symbiotic relationship fosters a dynamic ecosystem where advertisers can optimize campaigns and publishers can monetize their content efficiently.
Big Data & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Big data and artificial intelligence enable targeted advertising, personalized content delivery, and data-driven decision-making. By harnessing these technologies, businesses can enhance customer engagement and optimize marketing strategies.
Broadcast Technologies
Broadcast technologies enable the widespread dissemination of content to diverse audiences. These technologies facilitate targeted advertising, captivating viewers with personalized messages. By harnessing broadcast tools effectively, companies can engage with consumers on a large scale, maximizing brand exposure and impact.
Business Process Automation
Business process automation streamlines workflows and enhances productivity. By automating tasks like ad placements and content distribution, companies can optimize their operations and stay ahead of the competition. Embracing automation tools can drive efficiency, improve decision-making, and ultimately lead to greater success in reaching target audiences.
Content & Publishing for Media & Advertising Innovation
Compelling content is the heart of engaging campaigns, capturing audiences' attention, and driving brand success. Through strategic publishing, companies can amplify their message, establish brand identity, and effectively connect with their target market.
Digital Advertising
Digital advertising is a cornerstone in today's media and advertising landscape. It offers precise targeting, real-time analytics, and a cost-effective way to reach a vast audience. Embracing digital advertising strategies is crucial for businesses looking to stay competitive and engage with consumers effectively.
Gaming & Esports
Gaming and esports are key areas that captivate audiences worldwide with immersive experiences and interactive content. Brands leverage this focus to reach a diverse and engaged demographic, tapping into the vast potential for targeted marketing and brand visibility. As technology continues to evolve, the fusion of gaming and advertising opens up new avenues for creative storytelling and consumer engagement in the digital landscape.
Out-of-Home Advertising
Out-of-home advertising reaches consumers on the go, driving brand awareness and complementing digital campaigns. With its ability to target specific locations and captivate audiences in transit, out-of-home advertising offers a unique way to make a lasting impact. Incorporating this medium into marketing strategies can expand brand reach and engagement, making it a valuable asset in the dynamic advertising landscape.
Telecommunications & 5G
Telecommunications and the advent of 5G are transforming connectivity and data speeds. With faster and more reliable networks, businesses can deliver content seamlessly and engage audiences in real time. The integration of 5G technology is reshaping how companies market their products and services, driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences.
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), & Mixed Reality (MR)
VR, AR, and MR are revolutionizing the media & advertising industry. These technologies offer immersive and interactive experiences, engaging audiences in novel ways. Incorporating VR, AR, and MR enhances storytelling, brand engagement, and consumer experiences, shaping the future of marketing strategies.
Media & Advertising Innovation Program Testimonial:
“Suntory Americas is thrilled to be a part of the Plug and Play Media & Ad program. As a company that values innovation and forward-thinking, this collaboration aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing unique and engaging experiences for our consumers."
— Yuhei Shinozaki, Director, Digital Transformation, Suntory Americas
How we help our Media & Advertising partners innovate
Real Success Stories
FAQs
What is a media and advertising innovation platform, and how does it work?
A media and advertising innovation platform connects established corporations with startups to create the next generation of media technology. Instead of building new capabilities in-house, corporations use platforms like ours to pilot and scale solutions, accelerating their digital media and advertising strategies.
How is intellectual property protected when collaborating with startups?
An NDA and confidentiality agreement are established between all parties at the start. Sensitive data is protected by contract, and competitors in the same program are kept in separate tracks.
What makes Plug and Play different from other media and advertising innovation programs?
We provide access to 100,000+ startups across 25+ industries globally. Our network includes leaders like JETRO and Suntory. No competitor matches our ecosystem’s depth for innovation in advertising and media.
How quickly will we see results from a media and advertising innovation program?
KPIs are defined together before the program starts. A dedicated Partner Success Manager tracks milestones throughout. Most partners see PoC outcomes within one program cycle, typically 3–4 months.
Catch Up With the Latest Trends
The Latest Industry Insights
AI Shopping Assistants Are Rebuilding the Entire Commerce Stack. Is Your Brand Ready?
Gaspard de Durand
How to Improve Brand Visibility in AI Search Engines (GEO Guide & Startups)
Philipp Hödl
The Future of Commerce Report
Konstantin Klettke, Zoë Chrysostom, Rita Belarbi, Daria Pelini and Gaspard de Durand
Our Locations
Our Global Events
Discover our global locations
We have a community of experts all over the world. We work as a bridge between Silicon Valley and the rest of the world, making innovation open to anyone, anywhere.