The Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) has opened applications for a new fund aimed at supporting local creators and strengthening the country’s growing creative industries.
The Fund for Creativity and Artist Development falls under the recently launched Creative Industries Development Fund (CIDF) and seeks to provide small-scale financial support to qualifying ESWACOS members developing new creative works.
Successful applicants may receive up to E5 000 per project to support activities such as recording songs, producing music videos, publishing books, digital distribution, marketing and other professional development initiatives linked to copyright works.
ESWACOS Executive Director Mmeli Hlanze said the initiative was designed to encourage the production and promotion of original local content.
“The fund is meant to empower creators to take their ideas from concept to completion. We want to see more high-quality local productions entering the market and reaching wider audiences,” said Hlanze.
He said the creative sector continued to show significant potential in contributing to economic growth, youth empowerment and cultural preservation.
“Many creatives have talent and vision, but financial limitations often delay or stop projects from being completed. Through this support, we hope to bridge that gap and stimulate more creative activity in the country,” he added.
Hlanze said the fund was open to creators, performers, producers, authors, publishers, songwriters and rights holders whose work falls within the copyright and neighbouring rights sector.
Applicants are required to be ESWACOS members in good standing and must submit proposals for new works or projects currently under development.
The fund will not support completed works that have already been commercially released or published.
Eligible costs include studio recording fees, video production, editing, mastering, artwork, photography, book publishing support, marketing and publicity expenses. However, the fund will not cover debt repayment, personal expenses unrelated to the project or the purchase of general equipment not directly linked to the proposed activity.
Applications will be assessed based on artistic merit, feasibility, budget clarity and the project’s potential contribution to the applicant’s career and local cultural industries.
Hlanze encouraged creatives across the country to take advantage of the opportunity.
“We are calling on artists and creators to submit strong and innovative proposals. This fund is about investing in local talent and building a sustainable creative economy,” he said.
Applications close on June 30, while successful recipients will be announced on July 17. Projects must be completed and submitted by August 21.
