United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) 2025 timbuktoo Creatives Lab for Creative Entrepreneurs

Implemented by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI), this pioneering accelerator programme is designed to help 15 high-potential creative businesses thrive in 2025.

As part of the global UNDP timbuktoo initiative, the Creatives Lab is a unique acceleration programme that blends financial and non-financial support, tailored to the specific needs of each participating creative entrepreneur. The Lab is a new UNDP offering, alongside the soon-to-be-launched timbuktoo Creatives Hub (implemented by UVU Africa)in District Six, Cape Town – a dynamic space where creatives can connect, collaborate, and innovate.

• Table of Content
• About United Nations Development Program (UNDP)
• UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab
• Aim and Benefits of UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab
• Requirements for UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab

Aim and Benefits of UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab

• 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.

Requirements for UNDP timbuktoo Creatives Lab Qualification

The Lab is 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
• Organisations aligned to Cultural & Natural Heritage Preservation

• 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.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details, visit UNDP webpage