Mediaset launching digital ventures fund

Mediaset is launching a new digital ventures fund, offering communication and advertising support to new digital startups in Italy in exchange for equity stakes.

The Ad4Ventures fund, which will be launched on Monday, is intended to support new Italian digital companies with high growth potential.

Mediaset vice-president Pier Silvio Berlusconi said that new ventures in Italy often failed or were absorbed byforeign investors due to lack of resources and that Mediaset could help by providing communication and promotional support through its media outlets and distribution channels.

To qualify, projects must have a funded workable business model and management team.