Deadline: July 10, 2026
The programme focuses on developing sustainable livelihood pathways for emerging creatives in music, performing arts, comedy, spoken word, podcasting, MCing, dance, digital entertainment, influencing, content creation, acting, media production, and related creative economy ecosystems. It emphasizes practical exposure, commercialization readiness, market linkage, audience development, professional industry participation, creative branding, digital storytelling, audience engagement, digital presence management, content production, creative entrepreneurship, portfolio development, personal brand development, monetization pathways, talent management, artist development, client engagement, event participation, freelancing opportunities, performance preparation, digital content monetization, bookings management, professional networking, contract awareness, collaboration opportunities, creative career management, and transition into self-employment, internships, enterprise development, and income-generating activities.
The selected consultancy firm will be responsible for designing and delivering a six-month practical acceleration programme for 30 young creatives who have an interest or demonstrated potential within the creative and entertainment industries. The programme is intended to strengthen participants’ professional capabilities while preparing them to build sustainable careers within Eswatini’s growing creative economy.
Participants will receive practical training that helps them identify, develop, package, and professionalize their creative talents. The programme places strong emphasis on building professional creative identities, increasing visibility, strengthening confidence, improving presentation skills, and positioning young creatives competitively in the market.
The consultancy firm will also expose participants to the operational realities of the creative industry. This includes practical learning on securing gigs, managing bookings, engaging promoters and clients, packaging performances, negotiating opportunities, maintaining professional standards, and using digital platforms to expand audiences and visibility.
Mentorship and hands-on learning are central components of the programme. Participants will undertake practical assignments, receive portfolio development support, gain live production exposure, and showcase their work through performances, exhibitions, digital platforms, creative showcases, public engagements, and community events where feasible.
The programme also aims to create pathways into commercialization by connecting participants with opportunities for freelancing, internships, creative collaborations, and other income-generating activities linked to Eswatini’s creative and entertainment sectors. Where applicable, the selected firm will utilize existing EYEP-supported infrastructure, including iHubs, digital workspaces, and creative production facilities, while promoting practical, entrepreneurship-focused learning that supports long-term employment and enterprise development.
The consultancy firm will be evaluated using the Highest Combined Score method, with technical proposals carrying a weight of 70 percent and financial proposals 30 percent. Technical evaluation will consider the firm’s expertise, the suitability of its methodology and implementation plan, and the management structure and qualifications of key personnel. Acceptance of the UNDP General Terms and Conditions is a mandatory requirement for proposal consideration.
For more information, visit UNDP.
