FG launches $100,000 Creative Economy Development Fund for Nigerians – how to apply

Nigerian creatives set to benefit from $100,000 CEDF 2025 funding
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially opened applications for the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF) 2025, a landmark initiative providing up to $100,000 in funding for businesses and individuals in the country’s creative sector.
Approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), the fund is designed to boost economic growth, stimulate cultural innovation, and expand Nigeria’s global creative influence. Applications close September 1, 2025.
Transforming Nigeria’s Creative Economy
The CEDF 2025 represents a significant national investment in the creative and cultural industries, recognizing their potential as powerful drivers of job creation, economic diversification, and cultural diplomacy.
The fund targets key industries including:
- Film, music, and publishing
- Fashion, art, and design
- Gaming studios and cultural tourism
- Media agencies and digital platforms
- Creative service providers such as legal and logistics firms
By injecting large-scale financing into these sectors, the government aims to expand production, open access to international markets, and create sustainable economic opportunities for Nigeria’s youth.
Funding Benefits for Nigerian Creatives
Beneficiaries of the CEDF 2025 will receive up to $100,000 in funding, along with business mentorship, industry training, and opportunities for global market exposure.
The program is designed to:
- Stimulate growth across creative and cultural industries
- Provide capital for production expansion and new market entry
- Support job creation, especially for young Nigerians
- Establish new financing models for intellectual property rights
- Empower entrepreneurs to develop scalable, globally competitive creative businesses
Who Can Apply for CEDF 2025?
The Creative Economy Development Fund is open to individuals, registered businesses, and institutions in Nigeria’s creative sector. Eligible applicants include:
- Writers, publishers, and artists
- Fashion designers and filmmakers
- Game developers and cultural tourism providers
- Training institutions and digital content creators
- Media agencies, legal firms, and logistics companies supporting creative work
This wide eligibility range ensures that the program can capture the full spectrum of Nigeria’s creative potential.
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Application Process: Step-by-Step
Interested applicants can apply through the official CEDF portal at https://cedf.gov.ng/.
- Visit the official CEDF website
- Complete the online application form with accurate business or project details
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit before the September 1, 2025 deadline
No IELTS or similar language requirements apply.
A Strategic Move for Nigeria’s Future
According to the Federal Ministry, the CEDF 2025 will not only inject capital into Nigeria’s creative economy but will also establish a transformative model for financing intellectual property. This is expected to create a ripple effect, boosting local production, enhancing Nigeria’s cultural exports, and positioning the country as a global creative hub.
With the deadline fast approaching, Nigerian creatives, entrepreneurs, and institutions are encouraged to seize this rare opportunity to secure funding, mentorship, and market access that could redefine their careers and businesses.