Kuhusu

Overview

UNDP is inviting applications from CreativeTech startups across Africa to join the first cohort of the timbuktoo Launchpad through the timbuktoo Creatives Hub.

The programme supports entrepreneurs developing innovative technology-based solutions for Africa’s creative industries by providing incubation support, mentorship, digital tools, and access to a continental network of founders, investors, and innovation partners.

The initiative aims to strengthen the growth and scalability of African startups working across creative sectors, including digital media, gaming, animation, music, film, design, immersive technologies, creator economy platforms, and AI-enabled creative solutions.

Programme Objectives

The programme seeks to:

• Support promising CreativeTech startups in developing scalable business models.
• Strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation within Africa’s creative economy.
• Improve startups’ access to mentorship, investment readiness support, and ecosystem connections.
• Connect African founders with regional and international innovation partners.

Benefits for Selected Startups

Participating startups will receive access to:

• Structured incubation programmes delivered by African incubators within the timbuktoo ecosystem.
• Mentorship from entrepreneurs, industry experts, and experienced founders.
• A pan-African network of startups, incubators, investors, and ecosystem partners.
• The Seedstars SIGMA platform for learning resources, mentorship matching, progress tracking, and AI-supported startup guidance.
• Investment readiness support, including pitch development and investor engagement.
• Opportunities to participate in demo days and ecosystem events.
• Potential pathways to acceleration programmes and early-stage investment opportunities.

Eligible Applicants

The programme is open to startups that:

• Are based in Africa or develop solutions targeting African markets.
• Have a prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• Have a committed founding team.
• Develop technology-enabled solutions relevant to the creative economy.
• Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability.

Eligible solutions may include:

• Digital content creation platforms.
• Animation and gaming technologies.
• Music and film technology solutions.
• Creator economy platforms.
• Immersive technologies.
• AI-powered creative solutions.
• Other technology-driven innovations supporting Africa’s creative industries.

UNDP particularly encourages applications from:

• Women-led startups.
• Youth entrepreneurs.
• Founders from underserved communities.

Application Information

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with startups admitted through quarterly cohorts.

The first cohort is expected to begin incubation in September 2026, followed by additional cohorts every three months.

About timbuktoo

timbuktoo is UNDP’s flagship initiative focused on positioning Africa as a global innovation leader. Through a network of thematic tech hubs, university innovation pods, ecosystem partners, investors, and entrepreneurs, the initiative aims to support:

• 10,000 startups.
• 1,000 high-growth ventures.
• US$1 billion in investment mobilisation.
• New economic opportunities across Africa.

The timbuktoo Creatives Hub serves as a continental platform connecting CreativeTech entrepreneurs with knowledge, networks, markets, and investment opportunities.