The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy has announced the launch of the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF)—a groundbreaking initiative to provide financial support to creatives, entrepreneurs, and organizations across Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries.
The CEDF is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at driving job creation, economic diversification, and elevating Nigeria’s global cultural presence.
Speaking at the official launch, the Honourable Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, described the fund as a strategic investment in unlocking the vast potential of the creative sector.
“This is not just a financial intervention,” the Minister stated. “It is a call to action for creatives, entrepreneurs, and industry enablers to scale their dreams and contribute to a thriving, inclusive creative economy.”
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement listed what the CEDF Offers to include tailored financial support through, Affordable loans and credit facilities for businesses in film, music, fashion, publishing, art, gaming, and cultural tourism, Equity and quasi-equity investments for high-growth creative enterprises, Grant funding for socially impactful and innovative cultural projects and Financing options leveraging intellectual property (IP)—such as film rights, music catalogs, and digital content—as bankable assets.
According to the statement the application Phases: Phase One opening till May 30, 2025, for mature projects seeking over $100,000 and Phase two which Opens August 4, 2025, for MSMEs and SMEs requesting under $100,000.
The Disbursement Timeline for Phase One commences January 1, 2026 while that of Phase Two starts April 1, 2026
Review and incubation for Phase One will take place from June to December 2025.
Explaining further the statement indicated that the fund is open to Individuals, startups, and institutions across the creative economy—including filmmakers, writers, artists, fashion designers, music producers, game developers, cultural tourism operators, trainers, legal consultants, media agencies, and logistics companies.
“Applications will be evaluated by independent professionals, with oversight from a private-sector-led investment committee. The fund is structured as an independently managed investment vehicle, anchored by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.
“Interested investors and partners are encouraged to explore co-investment opportunities or sub-fund participation.”
For more information and updates, visit:
👉 CEDFnigeria.com
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa
