France Backs African Creative Entrepreneurs with Major New Funding Initiative

A new French-backed initiative is launching to empower cultural entrepreneurs across Southern Africa. Création Africa will provide significant funding and mentorship to creative businesses in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi. The application window is now open, with a final deadline of December 7, 2025.

The program specifically targets established businesses within the cultural and creative industries. It represents a major investment in the region’s growing creative economy.

Substantial Grants and Intensive Support for Growth-Stage Businesses

Selected projects will receive financial support ranging from €15,000 to €30,000. This funding is designed to help scale their operations. The exact amount will be determined by a jury based on each project’s specific needs and potential for growth.

Beyond funding, the program offers a comprehensive support system. This includes an intensive mentorship phase and a six-month incubation program run by South African incubator UVU Africa. According to Reuters, such holistic support is critical for the success of creative startups.

Eligibility and Selection for the Création Africa Program

The program is open to entrepreneurs over 18 who are residents of the three target countries. Applicants must have an existing, registered business that has been operating for at least two years. The initiative seeks creative companies with a clear vision and a scalable business model.

The selection process is rigorous. It involves a presentation to a jury in January 2026. Only 15 projects will ultimately be chosen for the full grant and incubation package.

This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Africa’s cultural economy. The Création Africa program provides a vital launchpad for ambitious creative entrepreneurs. It signals strong international confidence in the region’s artistic and commercial potential.

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What is the main goal of Création Africa?

Cération Africa aims to build a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem for cultural entrepreneurship. It supports growth-stage businesses through a combination of funding, mentorship, and incubation.

Which countries are eligible for this program?

The program is open to entrepreneurs who are residents of South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi. Their businesses must also be registered in one of these three countries.

What kind of businesses can apply?

Eligible sectors are broad, covering visual arts, music, film, design, fashion, and digital media. The business must have been in existence for at least two years and show potential for revenue and scalability.

What does the financial support cover?

Selected projects will receive grants between €15,000 and €30,000. This funding is intended as leverage to help scale their operations, not to start a new business from scratch.

Who is implementing the program?

The French Institute of South Africa is providing oversight and funding. The local implementation, including mentorship and incubation, is being managed in partnership with the South African incubator UVU Africa.

Trusted Sources

Reuters