The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in partnership with Gebeya, has introduced the CANEX Create-thon 2026. This $50,000 competition aims to provide essential support to innovators across the music, film, and gaming sectors. Nigerian creators are expected to gain significantly from this initiative, which offers technical assistance, digital resources, and international networking opportunities.
Running from August 20–24, 2026, the four-day event invites participants to use the Dala Studio platform to develop original projects. Unlike standard pitch contests, entrants must deliver functional prototypes or finished work. According to Temwa Gondwe, Director of Creatives and Diaspora at Afreximbank, the program addresses critical gaps in financing and technology, helping artists transition from viral content to sustainable business ventures.
Gebeya CEO Amadou Daffe noted that while Nigeria’s creative sector is robust, it still lacks necessary infrastructure. This competition intends to fill that void by providing direct access to production tools. The event is open to individuals and teams of all skill levels, regardless of prior professional affiliation.
A prize pool of $50,000 will be distributed among winners. Top finishers in each category receive $7,000, while second and third places receive $3,500 and $1,500 respectively, with other finalists awarded $500. Furthermore, category winners will travel to the CANEX WKND 2026 event at the National Theatre in Lagos this November to connect with global industry leaders. Registration for the competition begins on July 30 and concludes on August 19, 2026.
