Open call: CANEX Creative Pitch for African creative enterprises

Led by Afreximbank’s SME Development Department in partnership with Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), the initiative will select creative entrepreneurs to present their businesses to a panel of investors, fund managers, financiers and creative industry professionals.

The programme is aimed at businesses seeking capital to scale operations across areas including music, film, fashion, gastronomy, sports and creative technology.

Key dates

• Application deadline: 9 October 2026
• Live pitch sessions: 5 to 6 November 2026
• Winners announced: 6 November 2026
• Top prize: US$20 000

Selected finalists will receive exposure to potential investors, feedback on their business proposals and potential access to the CANEX Deal Room and Afreximbank’s wider SME and creative industry programmes.

Eligibility

The open call is available to creative entrepreneurs and enterprises operating in CANEX’s active markets. Individuals, early-stage start-ups and established businesses may apply.

Eligible sectors include:

• Music and the recording industry
• Performing arts
• Film and audiovisual content
• Fashion and design
• Sports and sports business
• Gastronomy and culinary enterprise
• Visual arts
• Literature and publishing
• Creative technology and related high-growth sectors

Selection criteria

• Applications will be assessed against five main areas:
• Viability and scalability of the business concept or venture
• Alignment with CANEX’s creative sectors and priorities
• Market potential and strength of the revenue model
• Potential social and economic impact, particularly within African and intra-African markets
• Quality and clarity of the application

Pitch format and conditions

Finalists will present their businesses during live sessions in Lagos, Nigeria, on 5 and 6 November.

Each finalist will have:

• Five minutes for the pitch presentation
• Five minutes for questions from the judging panel

Applicants who are selected as finalists must be available in Lagos and nominate a primary presenter for the live session. Remote and proxy presentations will not be accepted.

Finalists may also receive optional coaching and preparation support before the event, subject to available resources.

Applicants may be required to provide supporting documentation during the due diligence process, including proof of business registration where applicable. Prize payments will be subject to Afreximbank’s SME Development Department due diligence and fund release procedures.

CANEX may amend the event timeline, venue or format if circumstances require changes.

Apply here before 9 October 2026.