Who can apply
- CreativeTech startups based in Africa
- Startups building creative-technology solutions targeting African markets
- Startups with a prototype or Minimum Viable Product
- Startups with a committed founding team
- Technology-enabled ventures addressing opportunities in Africa’s creative economy
- Startups demonstrating potential for growth and scalability
- Women-led startups are particularly encouraged
- Youth-led startups are particularly encouraged
- Founders from underserved communities are particularly encouraged
Focus areas
- Digital content creation
- Animation
- Gaming
- Music technology
- Film technology
- Digital design
- Creator economy platforms
- Immersive technologies
- Artificial intelligence for creative industries
- Technology-enabled cultural industries
- Digital media
- Creative-economy innovation
Requirements
- Be based in Africa or develop a solution targeting African markets
- Have a prototype or Minimum Viable Product
- Have a committed founding team
- Develop a technology-enabled solution relevant to the creative economy
- Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability
- Provide clear information about the startup, founders, solution and target market
- Be available to participate actively in the incubation programme if selected
Application steps
- Read the official UNDP CreativeTech Launchpad information
- Confirm that your startup has a working prototype or Minimum Viable Product
- Prepare information about your founders, solution, market and growth potential
- Open the official timbuktoo application platform
- Complete all required startup and founder information
- Submit the application for consideration in an upcoming quarterly cohort
Global Grants Hub strategic note
This programme is best suited to CreativeTech startups that already have a prototype or MVP. Applicants with only an idea are unlikely to be competitive. Strong startups should clearly demonstrate the problem they solve, how technology strengthens their creative product or service, who their users or customers are and how the venture can scale. This is an accelerator, not a cash grant. UNDP provides incubation, mentorship and investment-readiness opportunities but does not guarantee funding or investment.