Agnes Ekebuike
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has unveiled the CANEX Deal Room for 2024, a platform aimed at connecting creatives with financiers and investors. The CANEX Deal Room, provided by Afreximbank, offers entrepreneurs in the creative sector the opportunity to present viable projects and investment prospects to financiers and investors. These projects can range from film and television, music, franchising, fashion, to infrastructure within the creative industry. This announcement comes ahead of CANEX WKND 2024, Africa’s largest gathering of professionals in the creative industry, which will be held from October 16-19, 2024 in Algiers, Algeria. The initiative intends to support the development and expansion of the creative and cultural sectors in Africa and the diaspora. The upcoming event builds upon the success of previous editions, including CANEX at IATF2023 in Cairo, which brought together delegates from across the continent representing various creative sectors. To be eligible for the CANEX Deal Room, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include being Africa-based enterprises with at least 25% African ownership, having an operating history of at least three years, and employing at least 50% African talent. Proposals should be submitted by October 1, 2024, to be considered for review. Late submissions will be disqualified. CANEX WKND 2024 is hosted by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, and the Government of Algeria. The event aims to further enhance the success achieved in previous editions of CANEX, fostering connections among delegates representing various creative sectors across the African continent.