Open call: Business and Arts South Africa Debut programme

The programme is aimed at empowering emerging artists in rural and peri-urban areas with the relevant business acumen to be profitable creative entrepreneurs. It is also aimed at providing artists with skills development, mentorship and funding opportunities to support their creative ventures.

First launched in 2017, the Debut programme has empowered more than 648 emerging creatives with business skills and development opportunities across the country.

In the third iteration of the programme, BASA hopes to increase the diversity of applicants and ensure better accessibility to its application process and the programme as a whole. The programme gives participants access to training and support using the Asset Based Community Driven Development (ABCD) model, which equips participants with the necessary tools to identify opportunities, resources and possible collaborations within their communities.

As they progress on the programme, participants will learn basic business communication skills, market research, business plan development, pitching and proposal submission, industry mentorship, funding and report writing.

Eligible applicants must fulfil the following criteria:

• Applicants must be South African creatives between the ages of 18 and 35.
• Artists must be active participants in their respective sectors, indicating their involvement and contribution to the field.
• Applicants must have a definite project to submit as part of their application. The project should be creative and align with the goals of the programme.

To get into the programme, applicants must record a one-minute video that includes their name, what they do, their proposed creative business venture, why they want to join the programme, and what they hope to gain from the experience. After this, applicants are required to send a “Hi” message on WhatsApp to +27 66 473 8435 and follow the simple instructions to submit their video and application details.

The closing date for applications is 30 September.

“The Debut programme is an exemplary initiative that bridges the divide between the art and business,” BASA programmes manager Zanele Madiba said. “In addition to providing comprehensive training, valuable resources, mentorship, and financial support conducive to nurturing creativity, it empowers participants to launch their creative ventures, transforming them into financially viable projects that contribute to the betterment of their respective communities.”

For Debut application enquiries, contact the BASA programmes team directly on +27 66 473 8435 or +27 66 473 8432 during office hours.

View the original call here.