Entertainment Week Africa (EWA), one of the continent’s largest gatherings for innovation and creativity, has launched its 2025 Deal Room, a funding and acceleration opportunity designed for startups at the intersection of technology and entertainment.
The initiative, which takes place from November 18 to 23, 2025, at the Livespot Entertarium, Lagos, offers selected founders a chance to access ₦25 million in funding, mentorship, and investor partnerships that could boost their business growth.
Why It Matters
Africa’s creative economy is valued at over $20 billion and continues to expand with tech-led solutions transforming music, film, fashion, and design.
The EWA Deal Room acts as a bridge between visionary founders and the capital they need to scale.
Over the years, the programme has supported startups such as Esosa, a travel-tech platform connecting the African diaspora; Taghub, an AI-powered influencer marketing network; and Synewave, a revenue-sharing platform for artists.
Together, these ventures have attracted more than $1 million in cumulative investment through EWA’s ecosystem.
Participants will undergo a three-day accelerator, receiving guidance from leading investors, industry experts, and creative leaders before showcasing their businesses at a Demo Day in front of global stakeholders.
The platform also promotes meaningful networking, deal flow, and visibility that many founders struggle to secure independently.
Who Can Apply
The EWA Deal Room is open to:
- Founders and co-founders of tech-driven ventures in the creative and entertainment industries, including music, film, fashion, publishing, and design.
- Builders of platforms or tools enhancing distribution, monetisation, analytics, fan engagement, or funding within the creative sector.
- Independent artists, producers, and directors with strong market traction or projects in pre-production or development.
- Emerging entrepreneurs in lifestyle and skincare seeking to scale innovative ideas.
- Managers, rights holders, and distributors looking for funding or strategic partnerships.
- Investors, ecosystem enablers, and industry leaders shaping Africa’s creative and tech sector.
Benefits
- Access to ₦25 million in potential funding and partnership opportunities.
- Exclusive mentorship from top-tier investors and creative industry professionals.
- Investor-ready business model refinement and pitch training.
- Direct exposure to global networks shaping the future of Africa’s entertainment and digital ecosystem.
- Opportunity to pitch live at EWA Demo Day before an audience of global stakeholders and media partners.
How to Apply
Applications are now open via the website. Interested participants should submit details about their business, vision, and traction before the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of selection.