The Embassy of France, in collaboration with the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS), recently unveiled a remarkable opportunity for emerging creative and cultural ventures in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi. With a substantial investment of R24 million, this initiative named Création Africa aims to empower and uplift these burgeoning enterprises, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between these regions.
Création Africa, orchestrated by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs and led by the Embassy of France and IFAS, stands as a pivotal component of a larger continental initiative by France to bolster the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs).
This groundbreaking venture seeks to elevate the trajectory of creative entrepreneurs through a series of actions. It commenced with a high-profile three-day forum in October 2023, where over 200 delegates from across Africa convened in Paris for a global exchange of ideas, knowledge, and innovation. Notably, more than 40 South African delegates were sponsored by IFAS, marking a commitment to fostering cross-continental collaboration.
Building on the forum’s momentum, Création Africa is now offering an unparalleled opportunity for practitioners in creative industries across the three nations. Through a comprehensive mentorship, incubation, and immersion program, it aims to fortify networks, enhance skills, and elevate the capabilities of these entrepreneurs. Furthermore, it endeavors to forge enduring cultural ties and mutual understanding between France and the participating countries.
David Martinon, Ambassador of France to South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi, emphasized the importance of this partnership in nurturing cultural and creative enterprises, citing its pivotal role in driving innovation and sustainable growth.
The initiative has announced UVU Africa as its local incubator partner, reinforcing its commitment to fostering the development of cultural entrepreneurs. Lara Rosmarin from UVU Accelerate expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing the program’s tailored approach to nurture creative minds and contribute to the dynamic cultural landscape.
The Embassy of France has invited emerging entrepreneurs in the cultural and creative sectors to apply for Création Africa’s incubation program. Forty projects will be selected, with twelve advancing to an intensive incubation process, customized to meet their specific needs. Financial support in the form of grants will also be provided to the incubated businesses to facilitate their growth and expansion.
Eligibility for application extends to entrepreneurs across various creative domains, including visual and performing arts, music, design, fashion, architecture, and more. Applications are open until January 26, 2024, offering a transformative opportunity for those seeking to make a lasting impact on the global stage. For comprehensive details and application information, click here.
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