SpeakUp

SpeakUp is a new mobile application that changes how people book speakers for events. It was launched in Dubai in April 2025. This tool acts like a smart marketplace for the speaking world. It connects event organizers with speakers, podcasters, and journalists directly. The app uses artificial intelligence to match people with the right topics and locations. It removes the need for middlemen agencies or email chains. The goal is to make finding experts easier and faster for everyone involved.

Benefits

The main advantage of SpeakUp is its speed and simplicity. Users can find the perfect speaker in seconds using one-tap AI matching. The system uses smart filters to search by region, industry, language, and specific topics. This ensures that organizers get relevant experts while speakers get discovered globally. A major benefit is the zero commission model. The platform charges no agency fees or commissions, making it free for all users to use. It also offers a global marketplace that connects thousands of people across the Middle East, North Africa, the United States, India, Singapore, and Europe.

Use Cases

Event organizers can use SpeakUp to find verified experts for conferences, workshops, or corporate meetings. They can filter candidates based on their specific needs without wasting time on cold calls. Speakers and podcasters can use the app to get discovered by international audiences looking for thought leaders. Media outlets and news organizations can source journalists or commentators in real-time for interviews or reports. The tool is particularly useful for anyone needing to book talent quickly without dealing with traditional booking agencies.

Pricing (ONLY include if available)

The app is currently free to use until October 1, 2025. During this early access period, users get unlimited access to all premium features. After this date, the pricing model may change, but the platform itself remains free from agency fees or commissions for its users.

Vibes (ONLY include if available)

Early feedback highlights the app's potential to revolutionize the industry. Helen Kareva, the founder, compared it to the Airbnb of the speaking world but noted it is smarter. The startup has received strong recognition from industry leaders. It holds a growth score of 93 and a heat score of 93, showing rapid momentum. It was ranked among the top 85 most promising entertainment startups globally in 2025 by F6S. These metrics suggest that the community and investors view SpeakUp as a highly innovative and promising venture.

Additional Information (ONLY include if available)

The founders bring significant experience to the project. Helen Kareva previously led talent development systems at Russian Post and NLMK. Nikita Zhuchkov is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree who directed innovation at MTS and Russian Post. The company is located in Dubai, UAE, and operates out of the In5 Tech Incubator. SpeakUp has achieved a Crunchbase rank of 64,113 out of over 5.2 million startups globally. The team focuses on democratizing speaker access and removing friction from the booking process.