The $1 million Founders Fund Africa Creative Economy Accelerator Programme, launched by Chocolate City Group, has opened applications for Nigerian startups operating in music, film, design, and creative technology. Selected ventures will receive between $20,000 and $50,000 in equity-free funding as part of the inaugural cohort of 10 startups.
Funding Details and Application Timeline
Announced during Chocolate City's 20th anniversary celebrations in October 2025, the accelerator is backed by Argentil Capital Management Limited and Co-Creation Hub. The programme was formally inaugurated by Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy. Applications for the first cohort, which closes on August 28, 2026, must be submitted through the official Founders Fund Africa portal.
The initiative targets businesses at various stages of development, offering not only capital but also mentorship, strategic partnerships, and investor readiness training. Successful applicants will join an intensive accelerator designed to refine business models and scale across the African continent.
Programme Objectives and Partnership
Audu Maikori, co-founder and Executive Chairman of Chocolate City Group, explained the rationale behind the fund. He said: "Founders Fund Africa was created to unlock opportunities for the next generation of creative entrepreneurs. Across Africa, we're seeing founders build innovative businesses that are redefining music, film, design and technology, yet many still struggle to access the support they need to scale."
The partnership with Argentil Capital and Co-Creation Hub brings financial expertise and ecosystem support to the programme, ensuring that startups receive comprehensive assistance beyond monetary investment. The accelerator aims to bridge the gap that often prevents creative entrepreneurs from accessing growth capital and industry networks.
Eligibility and Application Process
Startups in the creative economy—including music, film, fashion, gaming, content creation, and creative technology—are eligible to apply. The application process involves eight steps:
- Visit the official Chocolate City Creative Fund website and click the application button.
- Create an account by providing personal details such as name and email.
- Select the relevant creative sector from the list of industries.
- Provide details about the business or project, including description, stage of development, target audience, goals, and expected impact.
- State the funding amount required and explain how it will be used to grow the venture.
- Upload supporting documents, which may include business registration, portfolio, pitch deck, financial information, or other relevant materials.
- Review the application thoroughly for accuracy and completeness.
- Submit the application before the August 28 deadline.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare a clear and compelling pitch that demonstrates their potential to contribute to the African creative economy.
Impact on the Creative Economy
Chocolate City's $1 million fund is expected to catalyze growth in Nigeria's creative sector, which includes music, film, fashion, and technology. By providing both funding and strategic support, the programme aims to nurture sustainable businesses that can compete globally. The focus on investor readiness also prepares startups for future funding rounds, creating a multiplier effect across the ecosystem.
The accelerator is part of a broader trend of corporate investment in Africa's creative industries, which have gained recognition as key drivers of economic diversification and job creation. With applications now open, the programme seeks to identify and empower the next wave of creative entrepreneurs.
