Debut Fund Programme 4th Iteration

The Debut Fund Programme is Business and Arts South Africa’s (BASA) flagship creative entrepreneurship and enterprise development programme, delivered in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC).

Designed for emerging creative entrepreneurs, Debut equips participants with the knowledge, skills, networks and business support needed to transform creative ideas into sustainable, market-ready enterprises.

Since its launch in 2017, the programme has supported young creatives from rural and peri-urban communities across South Africa, helping them build resilient businesses, strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities and contribute to the country’s growing creative economy.

Debut Fund Programme bridges the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship by providing practical business development support tailored to the realities of South Africa’s creative and cultural industries.

Participants embark on a structured development journey that combines learning, mentorship and practical application, enabling them to strengthen their business foundations, validate their ideas and prepare for long-term growth.

The programme reflects BASA’s commitment to creating meaningful pathways for young creatives to participate in and contribute to an inclusive, innovative and sustainable creative economy.

The programme is designed for emerging creative entrepreneurs who:

• Are South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35.
• Live in rural or peri-urban communities.
• Have a creative business idea, proof of concept or early-stage enterprise.
• Are committed to growing a sustainable creative business.
• Work within South Africa’s creative and cultural industries.

Debut welcomes applications from entrepreneurs working across a broad range of creative disciplines.

Participants benefit from a comprehensive enterprise development experience that includes:

• Business and entrepreneurship training
• Creative business development support
• Mentorship and coaching
• Financial and business management skills
• Market readiness and growth planning
• Networking opportunities
• Access to industry experts and peer learning
• Practical tools to build resilient and sustainable businesses

Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to transform your creative idea into a sustainable business, the Debut Fund Programme is your opportunity to learn, grow and build a thriving creative enterprise.

Applications are now open.
Application Deadline: 17 July 2026