Empowering Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs: The 2023 Creative Business Cup by MasterCard, Pan African University, and Providus Bank
Unveiling the Global Initiative for Creative Entrepreneurs
The Creative Business Cup is far more than a mere competition; it represents a comprehensive, year-round global endeavor that emboldens entrepreneurs within the creative industries. This initiative goes beyond the competition aspect, fostering the growth of innovative business concepts, facilitating connections with investors and worldwide markets, and enhancing participants’ capacity to innovate for the betterment of both industries and society at large. By providing exposure and facilitating interactions with industry partners and investors, this program positions creative entrepreneurs on a trajectory toward success.
Recognizing the Impact of Creative Industries
Creative industries wield a significant influence on global economic growth and employment generation. These industries not only contribute to economic development but also spearhead novel solutions to the challenges faced by conventional sectors through cross-sectoral innovation. This dynamic interplay leads to the creation of a more competitive and vibrant society. The essence of the Creative Business Cup (CBC) Nigeria lies not only in empowering participating startups but in nurturing the creative startup ecosystem across Nigeria.
Diverse Opportunities: Competitions, Fellowships, and Training
Under the overarching theme of empowerment, the CBC Nigeria offers a range of opportunities:
- Competition with Prizes: The heart of the initiative lies in the competition, where aspiring entrepreneurs have a chance to secure a prize of 1 million naira. This monetary incentive serves as a stepping stone toward realizing their creative business visions.
- Accelerator Programme: Successful participants gain access to an accelerator programme, a platform designed to expedite the growth of their business ventures. This immersive experience equips entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and networks required to thrive.
- 5-Day Enterprise Bootcamp: An intensive 5-day bootcamp provides participants with invaluable insights, skills, and strategies essential for navigating the competitive business landscape of the creative industries.
- Mentorship by Global Experts: A diverse pool of international mentors offers personalized guidance, enabling participants to benefit from the wisdom and experience of seasoned professionals in the creative and entrepreneurial realms.
- Holistic Business Support: CBC Nigeria doesn’t just stop at ideas; it offers tangible business support services that encompass various facets of entrepreneurship, helping participants translate creativity into sustainable enterprises.
Eligibility: Fostering Creative Excellence
To be considered for the program, aspiring entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria:
- Creative Entrepreneurship: Participants must hail from the creative sector, showcasing a commitment to leveraging their artistic talents for innovative business ventures.
- Creativity and Innovation: The program seeks individuals who stand out for their creative thinking and innovative approaches, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship that drives the creative industries forward.
- Business Potential: The ideas presented should carry the promise of business viability and growth, demonstrating the potential to make a tangible impact in the market.
- Age Range: The initiative is open to young minds between the ages of 18 and 35, reflecting the focus on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in the youth.
- Open Invitation: The CBC Nigeria extends a warm welcome to creative entrepreneurs from all corners of Nigeria, inviting them to participate and contribute to the vibrant landscape of creative innovation.
Pioneering Change for Nigerian Creatives
Hailing from diverse sectors including design, leisure activities, publishing, fashion, film/video & photography, software/computer games & electronic publishing, toys & games, 3D printing maker, craft & artisan, music, gastronomy, architecture, and experience technologies, the Creative Business Cup is poised to reshape the entrepreneurial trajectory of Nigeria’s creative talents. With its deadline set for September 4, 2023, the application process awaits the influx of ingenious minds ready to harness their creativity for economic and societal advancement.
For Further Information and Application
For those ready to embark on this transformative journey, additional details and the application process can be found at reg.smetoolkit.ng/program. Seize the opportunity to be a part of the 2023 Creative Business Cup and contribute to the dynamic growth of Nigeria’s creative economy.
