Are you a creative entrepreneur in South Africa, Lesotho, or Malawi looking to scale your business? The French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and the Embassy of France have launched the second edition of Création Africa — a high-impact support programme offering mentorship, incubation, and funding for cultural and creative ventures.
Création Africa, backed by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, is a regional programme targeting the cultural and creative industries (CCI) in Southern Africa.
This initiative supports sectors such as music, film, design, crafts, animation, gaming, fashion, architecture, digital media, and more.
For entrepreneurs, this is more than a grant — it’s a holistic journey combining training, mentorship, networking, and international exposure. Past cohorts have traveled to France for immersion and deep sector engagement.
Benefits of the Program
Mentorship & Coaching: Selected entrepreneurs will participate in a coaching phase (Feb–Mar 2026).
Incubation: 15 creative enterprises will be accepted into an intensive incubation from April to October 2026.
Networking Opportunities: Access to French and African creative markets, partners, and funders.
International Immersion: Finalists may take part in an immersion programme in Europe.
Funding Support: Financial grant estimated between €15,000–€30,000, depending on needs and jury decision.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
To participate, you must:
Be 18 years or older and a resident of South Africa, Lesotho or Malawi.
Run a registered business in one of these countries (your business must be legally established and managed by you).
Operate in the cultural & creative industries, such as design, music, film, fashion, interactive media, crafts, etc.
Be available for the full programme, including pitch events, coaching, incubation, and immersion.
Key Dates
Application Deadline: 7 December 2025 at 23:59 SAST
Shortlist Presentations: 19–23 January 2026
Selection of 50 Entrepreneurs: 26–29 January 2026
Coaching Phase: 2 February – 20 March 2026
Incubation: 6 April – 9 October 2026
Immersion Programme: Between October and November 2026
Helpful Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Be clear about your creative business model: Define how your venture creates value, its audience, revenue streams, and growth potential.
Show past traction: Share past performances, sales, collaborations, or community impact — even early-stage projects matter.
Demonstrate innovation and sustainability: Explain what makes your idea unique and how it can grow into a sustainable business.
Prepare for time commitment: Be ready to commit time outside regular business duties for mentorship, incubation, and immersion.
Engage with local and international networks: Highlight any partnerships, collaborations, or future plans that connect you to broader creative markets.
Use multimedia in your pitch: Include images, concept designs, or short videos to bring your creative vision to life.
