Arts and Creative Industries / Création Africa season 2 / Frequently Asked Questions: Création Africa 2 Applications

Frequently Asked Questions: Création Africa 2 Applications

Arts and Creative Industries
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1 December

Following the webinar held on 24 November, below is a list of FAQs (frequently asked questions) raised during the session. This guide brings together the key points, clarifications, and helpful information.

Eligibility & Application

Who can apply?

  • Applicants must:
  • Be 18 years or older (no upper age limit).
  • Reside in South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi.
  • Be the founder or co-founder managing and leading an existing company within the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI’s)
  • Have a registered business, ideally operating for at least two years.
  • Be available for the full duration of mentorship and incubation phases.

Can non-profits / NGOs apply?

  • Yes. Non-profits can apply, but must demonstrate clear impact, a track record, and growth potential.

Can the project lead apply if they are not a founder?

  • Ideally a founder should apply. A project lead may apply only if they can demonstrate a formal role and long-term alignment with the organisation.

What if I started operating years ago but registered recently?

  • You may still apply. You must demonstrate activity, milestones, and proof of two years of operations.

 

My business works internationally. Is that allowed?

  • Yes, as long as the business is registered in South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi.

Can I apply for a project under another business?

  • No. This is a call for existing businesses, not projects.

If there is more than one founder, how do we apply?

  • Select one person as the primary contact. You may upload CVs of all founders.

Can someone pitch if abroad during jury interviews?

  • Yes, the first jury interviews are online (end of January).

 

Programme Structure

Programme Dates:

  • Call for Application deadline: 7 December 2025
  • Jury interviews: 19–23 January 2026 (online)
  • Top 50 announced: 26–29 January 2026
  • Mentorship: 2 Feb – 20 Mar 2026
  • Pitch sessions: 24–26 March 2026
  • Incubation (Top 15): April – October 2026
  • Creation Africa Days: October 2026
  • Immersion Trip to France: November 2026

Mentorship time commitment

  • Time commitment: The Top 50 mentorship phase includes daily workshops, mentorship circles, and one on one sessions. Expect a commitment similar to a full work week.

Where does the programme take place?

  • Mostly online, with some required in-person events.

Will travel be covered?

  • Yes. Transport and accommodation costs for required events are covered. However, participants must already hold a valid passport or be able to apply for one at their own expense.

 

Tracks & Sectors

  • Eligible sectors include: Visual & performing arts, music, film & TV, design, craft, fashion, animation, gaming, digital creation, interactive media, cultural spaces, publishing, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Funding & Investment

  • Funding is awarded after incubation. Finalists pitch their investment needs to a jury.

Application Process

  • Where to apply: here

How to preview full application:

  • Download full form on page 1.

 

Is the immersion trip a relocation?

  • No, it is a short professional and networking trip.

Can previous cohort participants apply?

  • Top 12 finalists cannot reapply; previous Top 40 may apply again.
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