Call for registration: Creative Entrepreneurship online workshop

Titled More than Just Talent – Findings & Implications from a National Study on Creative Sector Entrepreneurial Success, the session will present insights from a 2025 national study of creative entrepreneurs and explore their practical implications.

The workshop will also discuss findings from SACO’s recent research paper, To what extent do youth-led initiatives/enterprises access funds in the sector – to sustain jobs?, focusing on youth access to funding and the sustainability of employment created within the CCIs.

Purpose

The session aims to:

• Examine factors influencing creative entrepreneurial success beyond artistic talent.
• Highlight the role of entrepreneurial identity, networks, market orientation and enabling ecosystems.
• Translate research findings into practical strategies for sustainable and visible creative careers.

Who should attend

The workshop is open to:

• Artists and cultural practitioners
• Creative entrepreneurs (music, film, visual arts, fashion, crafts and digital sectors)
• Academics researching entrepreneurship and the creative sector
• Cultural organisations and creative hubs
• Policymakers, funders and ecosystem partners

Expected outcomes

Participants will:

• Gain insight into key drivers of success in the creative economy.
• Identify growth gaps among creative entrepreneurs.
• Learn practical tools to strengthen sustainability, visibility and market access.
• Apply national research findings to individual or organisational strategies.

Facilitators

• Prof Willie Chinyamurindi – University of Fort Hare
• Dr Herring Shava – Walter Sisulu University

Event details

• Date: 26 February
• Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Format: Online
• Registration: Via Microsoft Teams event portal

The workshop forms part of SACO’s ongoing research and knowledge-sharing initiatives within South Africa’s cultural and creative industries.