UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab 2025 For African Entrepreneurs

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Applications are open for UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab 2025. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s timbuktoo Creatives Lab is empowering innovation in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs). If you’re a creative entrepreneur looking to scale your business and take it to the next level, this accelerator program is your opportunity to thrive in 2025.

What is the UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab?

Implemented by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI), the timbuktoo Creatives Lab is a unique acceleration program designed to support 15 high-potential creative businesses. This program is part of the broader UNDP timbuktoo initiative, which focuses on fostering creative innovation and business growth. As part of the global UNDP timbuktoo initiative, their Creatives Lab is a unique acceleration programme that blends financial and non-financial support, tailored to the specific needs of each participating creative entrepreneur.

Benefits

Tailor-made growth support: We’ll deep dive into digital technologies, advanced production techniques, sustainable design methods, and market access strategies.
Bespoke financial support: Receive a targeted grant aligned with a personalised growth intervention plan.
Vital business skills: Learn key strategies to scale your business.
Access to experts & networks: Connect with leading industry professionals, investors, and mentors.
Opportunity to join a thriving creative ecosystem: Become part of a community of high-growth creative entrepreneurs.

Who should apply?

We’re looking for ambitious creative entrepreneurs in the following sectors:

Audio-visual
Design: Graphic, Fashion, Industrial, Architecture, Interior
Music: Recording, Live Music, Instruments & Production, Festivals
Multi-media
Organizations aligned to Cultural & Natural Heritage Preservation

Eligibility Criteria for UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab

They are looking for applicants that meet these criteria below:

Applicants from all regions in South Africa and all other African countries will be considered
Applicants must have a registered businesses, operating within the sectors of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) listed above
Businesses between 2 – 5 years in operation
Businesses with an annual turnover of R200 000 and above
Women, youth and marginalised groups are encouraged to apply (including black-owned businesses, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+, and rural-area based entrepreneurs)
This is a bespoke part-time programme, designed around your needs and will require an agreed number of hours in commitment per month.