The Algerian Ministry of Culture and Arts has launched the second edition of the "Thakafa-Up" challenge, in collaboration with the Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. This national competition is aimed at supporting promising projects in the cultural and creative industries. The challenge is open to Algerian individuals and entities, including project holders, startups, and small enterprises, that operate in the cultural and creative sectors.

The "Thakafa-Up" challenge seeks to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and the use of technology in the cultural sector. Eligible participants include project holders who have not yet established their enterprises, registered startups and small projects, self-employed individuals with a self-employment card, and cultural companies, regardless of their legal form. These entities must operate in the cultural and creative industries, which include creation, production, publishing, and marketing of Algerian cultural goods and services.

Interested parties can submit their applications through the Ministry's website, starting from October 11, 2026, until November 5, 2026. An initial selection of participating projects will be made on November 15, 2026. Selected project holders will then participate in a specialized training camp before presenting their projects to a jury in the semi-final stage. The winners will be announced, and prizes will be awarded in late December 2026.

The "Thakafa-Up" challenge aims to promote the development of the cultural and creative industries in Algeria. By supporting innovative projects, the Ministry of Culture and Arts seeks to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and creativity in the sector. This initiative is also expected to contribute to the growth of the Algerian economy and the creation of new job opportunities.

The competition is open to a wide range of cultural and creative activities, including music, theater, dance, visual arts, and cultural heritage preservation. Participants are encouraged to submit projects that showcase Algerian culture and creativity, while also promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. The Ministry of Culture and Arts will provide support and guidance to selected project holders throughout the competition.

The launch of the "Thakafa-Up" challenge is part of the Algerian government's efforts to promote the cultural sector and support creative industries. The competition is expected to attract a large number of participants and to contribute to the development of a vibrant cultural scene in Algeria. The Ministry of Culture and Arts has invited all interested parties to participate in the competition and to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their talents and creativity.

Key points

  • The "Thakafa-Up" challenge is a national competition aimed at supporting innovative projects in the cultural and creative industries in Algeria.
  • The competition is open to Algerian individuals and entities, including project holders, startups, and small enterprises, that operate in the cultural and creative sectors.
  • The winners of the competition will be announced, and prizes will be awarded in late December 2026.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.