BOMESI Has Opened Applications for Fifth Cohort

The accelerator program for diverse-owned media businesses will accept 11 companies to receive support packages.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Advertising

Isometric editorial illustration of a brass compass and clean drafting paper, symbolizing guidance and support for emerging media businesses. — BOMESI has opened applications for its fifth accelerator cohort, offering 11 media companies non-dilutive grants and advertising technology mentorship. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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BOMESI has officially opened applications for its fifth accelerator cohort, which will support 11 selected companies with cash grants and services. The program aims to foster collaboration between publishers and creators within the media ecosystem.

Why it matters

The program has restructured its cohort composition to reflect the increasing influence of creators, while providing non-dilutive financial support to businesses that often face barriers to capital.

Selected participants receive $25,000 in support, consisting of a $10,000 cash grant and $15,000 in services. The program has previously graduated 32 companies and facilitated $2 million in direct ad revenue.

The players

BOMESI

This organization supports hundreds of Black-owned and diverse-owned media companies through grants and mentorship.

General Motors

This multinational automotive manufacturing corporation provides funding for the accelerator program.

Press Forward

This organization provides an infrastructure grant to support the accelerator program operations.

The details

Selected participants will engage in 12 weeks of mentorship, instruction in advertising technology, and meetings with media buyers. Funded by General Motors and Press Forward, the program requires no equity or revenue share from the participating companies.

Applications for the fifth cohort opened on Sept. 15, 2026.
The application window closes on Oct. 1, 2026.
The 12-week accelerator program kicks off in mid-October 2026.

Market Landscape

This move highlights the growing importance of independent creators in the advertising industry, as traditional publishers increasingly seek collaborative models. By integrating creators into its accelerator, the organization positions its participants to capture a larger share of modern media ad revenue.

Eligible media companies with fewer than 20 employees and annual revenue between $50,000 and $1 million can apply for the $25,000 support package. Successful applicants gain access to valuable industry mentorship and direct connections to major media brands and buyers.

The takeaway

The transition to include creators in the accelerator cohort reflects a broader industry recognition that diverse, creator-led media is essential for growth. Applicants should focus on how their business model bridges the gap between traditional publishing and current creator-led trends.