Applications are now open for the United Nations Development Programme 2025 Timbuktoo Creatives Lab
The Creatives Lab Accelerator Programme by CDI, part of the global UNDP timbuktoo initiative, is a groundbreaking opportunity designed for ambitious African creative entrepreneurs ready to scale their businesses. Implemented by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI), this accelerator blends financial and non-financial support, offering bespoke guidance tailored to each entrepreneur’s unique needs.
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Launching in 2025, this programme will empower 15 high-potential creative businesses, helping them innovate, connect, and thrive in the competitive creative economy.
The Partnership Behind the Creatives Lab
A collaboration between UNDP timbuktoo and CDI, the Creatives Lab leverages the experience of top creative and development organizations. Their joint goal is simple but powerful: strengthen Africa’s creative industries through targeted acceleration, sustainability, and innovation.
Mission and Vision of the Creatives Lab
The Creatives Lab exists to foster a thriving, sustainable creative sector in Africa. It aims to:
- Empower emerging entrepreneurs
- Drive innovation using new technologies
- Preserve cultural and natural heritage
- Support sustainable design and eco-friendly production
Key Benefits of Joining the Creatives Lab
- Tailored mentorship and training
- Targeted financial grants
- Direct access to investors and markets
- Increased visibility within the creative ecosystem
- Opportunity to collaborate at the future timbuktoo Creatives Hub
Who Can Apply for the Creatives Lab Accelerator Programme?
The programme is designed for:
- Registered businesses operating in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs)
- Entrepreneurs with businesses that have been operational for 2 to 5 years
- Companies with an annual turnover of R200,000 and above
- Innovators passionate about creative sectors like design, music, multi-media, and heritage preservation
Creative Sectors Eligible for Application
Eligible sectors include:
- Audio-visual (film, animation, digital storytelling)
- Design (graphic, fashion, industrial, architecture, interior)
- Music (recording, live performances, production, festivals)
- Multimedia (interactive media, digital platforms)
- Cultural and Natural Heritage Preservation (museums, conservation initiatives)
Geographical Scope: Africa-Wide Opportunities
The Creatives Lab warmly welcomes:
- Entrepreneurs from all regions of South Africa
- Entrepreneurs from any African country
Business Operation and Revenue Requirements
Eligible businesses must:
- Be officially registered
- Have operated for 2 to 5 years
- Earn at least R200,000 annually
Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
Special encouragement is given to:
- Women entrepreneurs
- Youth
- Black-owned businesses
- Individuals with disabilities
- LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs
- Businesses from rural areas
Part-Time and Bespoke Programme Model
This is a part-time, highly tailored programme. Entrepreneurs will engage in a structured number of monthly hours, carefully designed around each business’s needs, ensuring flexibility while maximizing growth potential.
Tailor-Made Growth Support Explained
Each entrepreneur will receive:
- Guidance on digital transformation
- Mastery of advanced production techniques
- Sustainable design methods
- Strategies for local and global market access
Bespoke Financial Support for Creatives
Participants will receive:
- Targeted grants aligned with their individualized growth plans
- Financial support tailored specifically to the interventions needed to drive expansion
Vital Business Skills Training
Skills development sessions will cover:
- Business scaling strategies
- Financial management
- Marketing and branding
- Leadership and strategic decision-making
- Sustainability practices in creative production
Access to Experts, Investors, and Networks
The Creatives Lab connects participants with:
- Top industry professionals
- Potential investors
- Experienced mentors
Joining a Thriving Creative Ecosystem
Participants will become part of an energized community of high-growth entrepreneurs, opening doors to:
- Collaborative projects
- Co-innovation opportunities
- Ongoing peer support networks
Why Choose the Creatives Lab Accelerator Programme?
Because it’s:
- Tailor-made to your business needs
- Financially supportive
- Committed to inclusion and diversity
- Linked to Africa’s newest creative hub: timbuktoo Creatives Hub
Selection Criteria for Applicants
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Business potential for scale and impact
- Creative innovation and originality
- Commitment to sustainable practices
- Entrepreneurial passion and leadership ability
Expectations During the Programme
While part-time, the programme requires:
- Consistent engagement
- Commitment to growth targets
- Monthly check-ins with mentors and trainers
Connection to the Timbuktoo Creatives Hub
Beyond the accelerator, entrepreneurs can tap into the Timbuktoo Creatives Hub in District Six, Cape Town, a vibrant new space for collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Real-World Skills Participants Will Gain
Participants will walk away with:
- Enhanced leadership capacity
- Financial acumen
- Branding and marketing expertise
- Sustainable production knowledge
- Deepened cross-sectoral networks
Supporting Sustainable and Culturally Relevant Businesses
The Creatives Lab places strong emphasis on:
- Sustainable, eco-friendly practices
- Businesses that preserve and promote African cultural heritage
How the Creatives Lab Supports Long-Term Growth
Participants gain:
- Ongoing access to CDI and UNDP networks
- Alumni support systems
- Future funding and collaboration opportunities
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the Creatives Lab official application page.
- Fill out the online form.
- Upload all necessary documentation proving business registration, revenue, and operational years.
- Share your vision for scaling your creative business.
- Submit before the application deadline.
Tips for a Winning Application
- Highlight innovation and sustainability in your business
- Demonstrate growth potential and market opportunity
- Share your passion for cultural or creative excellence
- Ensure clear, professional application documents
Application Deadline: 07 May 2025.
