Deadline: December 7, 2025
The Création Africa – South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi 2025 programme is a unique opportunity designed to empower innovative entrepreneurs in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI). This initiative supports creative projects and enterprises in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi that are ready to scale their impact across Africa and globally.
If you are passionate about culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship, this is your chance to elevate your business through mentorship, funding, and incubation support.
About the Création Africa – South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi 2025 Programme
The Création Africa – South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi 2025 programme aims to promote the growth of cultural and creative industries across the region. It targets startups and entrepreneurs working within diverse creative sectors such as:
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Music, Film, Advertising, and Television
- Design and Craft
- Fashion and Textile Innovation
- Animation, Gaming, and Interactive Media
- Digital Content Creation
- Cultural Heritage and Tourism
This initiative seeks to strengthen creative ecosystems while supporting sustainable business models that showcase African talent and creativity.
Funding and Support
A total of 15 projects will be selected to receive funding between €15,000 and €30,000, depending on their project’s scope and development stage.
Each selected entrepreneur will benefit from a comprehensive programme that includes:
- Mentorship: Personalised coaching to refine business models, creative processes, and strategies for scaling.
- Training: Workshops and capacity-building sessions on leadership, marketing, innovation, and financial management.
- Networking: Access to regional and international creative industry experts, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
- Incubation: A 6-month incubation period to help participants grow their businesses sustainably.
Key Dates and Timeline
Below is a detailed timeline for the 2025/2026 Création Africa programme:
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 7 December 2025 |
| Jury Presentation | 19 – 23 January 2026 |
| Mentorship Phase | 2 February – 20 March 2026 |
| Incubation Phase | 6 April – 9 October 2026 |
Selected participants must be available throughout the mentorship and incubation phases to maximise the benefits of the programme.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Création Africa – South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi 2025 programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be residents of South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi.
- Be 18 years or older at the time of application.
- Be managing an existing cultural or creative business (not an idea-stage project).
- Have a company or organisation that has been in existence for at least 2 years.
- Demonstrate potential for scalability, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
- Be available for all programme phases from February to October 2026.
Why You Should Apply
This programme offers a transformative platform for creative entrepreneurs to gain exposure, investment, and growth opportunities. Whether you are in film, music, digital media, fashion, or visual arts, Création Africa 2025 provides the resources and mentorship you need to elevate your business to the next level.
For professional video editors, filmmakers, and content creators, the programme aligns perfectly with the digital and media segment of the CCI, offering a pathway to expand creative enterprises, upgrade technical capacity, and connect with international partners.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit a successful application:
- Review the Eligibility Criteria to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare Your Business Documents: Include your company profile, description of creative activities, financial overview, and scalability plan.
- Craft a Strong Value Proposition: Explain how your project contributes to the cultural and creative ecosystem in your country.
- Submit Your Application Before the Deadline: Applications close on 7 December 2025.
Selected applicants will be invited for jury presentations in January 2026, followed by mentorship and incubation phases.
Programme Benefits Summary
- Access to €15,000 – €30,000 in project funding.
- Expert mentorship and strategic guidance.
- Incubation and capacity development for 6 months.
- Opportunities for networking with creative industry leaders.
- A stronger platform to scale your business across Africa and beyond.
Conclusion
The Création Africa – South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi 2025 programme represents a groundbreaking opportunity for creative entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, access funding, and gain valuable mentorship.
If your passion lies in the creative economy, don’t miss this chance to make a lasting impact in Africa’s cultural landscape.
👉 Read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
