El Tony Mate Producer Academy 2026: Win an Ibiza Retreat

Shaping the Future of Electronic Music Under the Balearic Sun

The magical island of Ibiza offers more than closing parties and legendary club nights. It is a true breeding ground for the future of electronic music. Following a triumphant debut last year, the El Tony Mate Producer Academy returns for a massive second edition in 2026. Backed by industry giant Beatport, this initiative gives eight emerging producers the ultimate golden ticket. They will win a career-changing week of creation and networking under the vibrant Ibiza sun.

More Than Just an Energy Drink

Electronic music pulses through the very veins of El Tony Mate. Known for their freshly brewed Argentinian mate tea, this Swiss natural energy drink brand does more than keep ravers dancing until dawn. Through their Culture Collective, they actively shape the culture and invest heavily in the next wave of talent. Last year's academy proved that when you lock passionate creatives in an Ibiza villa, pure magic happens. Fresh ideas spark, collaborations are born, and lifelong connections are forged across the dancefloor.

Ellen Fölmli, Culture Specialist at the brand, perfectly sums up their mission:

Electronic music has always been at the heart of El Tony Mate. Through the El Tony Mate Producer Academy, by bringing together emerging producers and experienced mentors, we’re empowering the next generation of artists - investing directly in the people who will shape electronic music’s future. For us, supporting culture means creating real opportunities.

Meet Your Industry Mentors

To guide this year's talented class, the academy has tapped two absolute heavyweights as coaches. First up is SKALA, the Berlin-based DJ, producer, and Amaeo label boss. Known for her hypnotic blend of glitchy elements, heavy bass lines, and airy melodies, she regularly dominates the Beatport Melodic Techno charts. She brings a wealth of global experience, having played massive stages everywhere from Off Sonar to Electric Brixton in London.

Joining her is Kid Simius, the Spanish maestro of Italo and Balearic House. As the head of Jirafa Records, he boasts over 36 million streams and a platinum-certified track under his belt. He knows exactly how to move a crowd and ignite a party. Last year alone, he played over 30 festivals like Tomorrowland and Fusion. During these massive shows, he supported absolute legends like Kerri Chandler, DJ Tennis, and Bonobo.

The Challenge: Your Ticket to Ibiza

How do you get your hands on this dream opportunity? The challenge demands pure creativity and studio flair. You need to produce an original track or a remix using exclusive stem packs. These stems are provided directly by SKALA and Kid Simius. Submissions close on August 23rd, so the clock is ticking fast! The judging panel, featuring the coaches, the El Tony Mate team, and Beatport, will select eight winners from across Europe. Details are here !

A Mind-Blowing Balearic Prize

From October 1st to October 7th, 2026, the eight winners will fly to Ibiza for an all-expenses-paid immersive trip. Here is exactly what the academy provides for the lucky few:

• Intensive coaching covering production, mixing, sound design, and track arrangement.
• Deep insights into the local scene, exploring iconic clubs, studios, and meeting key artists.
• Incredible villa accommodation, flights, and all your delicious food included.
• Epic networking sessions and unforgettable leisure activities (did somebody say boat trips?).
• Potential follow-up support like label opportunities and Beatport network access.

This is much more than just a music masterclass. It is a potential springboard to your very own record deal and global recognition. The electronic music world is always waiting for its next visionary. Will you step up, take the challenge, and let the white island inspire your breakthrough?