Deadline: Ongoing
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting applications from CreativeTech startups across Africa to join timbuktoo Launchpad through the timbuktoo Creatives Hub, hosted in South Africa.
Anchored within timbuktoo, UNDP’s pan-African platform supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, the programme aims to strengthen the growth and scalability of African startups developing technology-enabled solutions across the creative industries.
Through the timbuktoo Creatives Hub, UNDP is supporting the next generation of CreativeTech entrepreneurs building scalable businesses that can contribute to innovation and economic growth across Africa.
Selected startups will join timbuktoo Launchpad, a distributed ecosystem of incubators, innovation hubs, mentors, and investors working together to support startup growth across the continent.
Benefits
CreativeTech startups selected for the programme will benefit from a combination of local incubation support and pan-African ecosystem access, including:
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Structured incubation programmes delivered by leading African incubators
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Access to experienced mentors, entrepreneurs, and industry experts
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Participation in a pan-African network of founders, incubators, and ecosystem partners
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Access to the Seedstars SIGMA platform for startup development and progress tracking
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Investment readiness support, including pitch development and investor engagement
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Opportunities to participate in demo days and ecosystem events across Africa
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Potential pathways to acceleration programmes and early-stage investment opportunities
Eligibility
Eligible startups should:
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Be based in Africa or building solutions targeting African markets
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Have a prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
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Have a committed founding team
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Be developing a technology-enabled solution relevant to the creative economy
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Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability
Solutions may address areas such as digital content creation, animation, gaming, music, film, design, creator economy platforms, immersive technologies, AI-enabled creative solutions, and other technology-driven innovations contributing to the growth of Africa’s creative industries.
UNDP particularly encourages applications from women-led startups, youth entrepreneurs, and founders from underserved communities.
How to Apply
Applications are open on a rolling basis, with startups admitted through quarterly cohorts. The first cohort will begin in September 2026, with additional cohorts starting every three months. Interested startups can submit their applications via the dedicated platform: here
For more information.
