FG Opens N300bn Creative Economy Development Fund with Disbursement Plan for Big Projects — Apply Now

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the N300 billion Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF), marking a major leap in financing support for Nigeria’s fast-growing creative and cultural sectors. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, is now receiving applications for its first phase of disbursement.

Designed to support transformative projects in film, music, fashion, arts, publishing, digital content, gaming, and cultural tourism, the fund is structured to bridge the long-standing financing gap within Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.

First Phase Targets Large-Scale Projects

The ongoing application round is open specifically to large-ticket projects seeking funding of $100,000 (approximately N150 million) and above. These are high-impact initiatives expected to generate employment, scale production, and open new markets for Nigerian creative products.

Applications for this phase will close on May 30, 2025. Interested applicants are advised to submit their proposals early via the official application portal:
Click here to apply now via https://cedfnigeria.com
(Ensure your browser loads the full page and locate the application section clearly titled “Apply for Funding.”)

Disbursement Backed by Afreximbank

To ensure a strong capital base, the government has secured a $200 million commitment from Afreximbank. This financial backing will be used to kickstart the disbursement process and drive early-stage funding to qualified projects.

The CEDF has been described as a special purpose vehicle that aims to transform the creative economy by allowing intellectual property (IP) — such as music rights, film licenses, and digital content — to be used as collateral to access loans and credit facilities.

Second Phase Coming in August

While the current phase is for large-scale projects, the Ministry has announced that a second round of funding for SMEs and MSMEs will begin on August 4, 2025. This will open the door for smaller creative businesses and startups to also benefit from the initiative.

Strategic National Goals

This fund aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy by reducing overdependence on oil and elevating Nigeria’s cultural and creative export potential on the global stage. With proper execution, the CEDF is expected to serve as a powerful engine for innovation, youth employment, and global recognition of Nigerian talent.

APPLY NOW

FAQs About the N300bn Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF)

Q1: What is the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF)?
CEDF is a funding initiative by the Federal Government aimed at providing financial support to Nigeria’s creative sectors, including film, music, fashion, arts, publishing, gaming, and tourism.

Q2: Who is eligible to apply in the first phase?
Only creative projects seeking $100,000 and above in funding are eligible in this first phase. Smaller projects will be eligible in the next phase launching in August 2025.

Q3: Where can I apply for the fund?
Applications should be submitted through the official CEDF portal:
https://cedfnigeria.com
Be sure to access the correct application link and follow all submission instructions carefully.

Q4: What kind of collateral is required for the loan?
One of the unique features of CEDF is that intellectual property (IP) such as music rights, film content, and other creative works can be used as collateral.

Q5: When is the application deadline for this phase?
The deadline for large-scale project applications is May 30, 2025.

Q6: How is the fund being financed?
The fund is backed by a $200 million commitment from Afreximbank in collaboration with the Federal Government.

Q7: What sectors are covered under the CEDF?
Eligible sectors include:

• Film and TV
• Music and entertainment
• Fashion and textile
• Arts and crafts
• Digital content creation
• Publishing
• Cultural tourism
• Gaming

Q8: Is there a support system for applicants?
The application portal provides guidelines and contact information for further assistance. Visit https://cedfnigeria.com for more support.

This is a unique opportunity for creatives and cultural entrepreneurs in Nigeria to secure transformative funding and grow their businesses on both local and international fronts.

Don’t miss out. Submit your application today at https://cedfnigeria.com.