The Digital Creator Africa (DCA) Summit has unveiled a $500,000 investment initiative, otherwise known as the Fourth Mainland Creator Fund, to drive Africa’s creative economy.

Speaking at the summit held at the Africa Creative Market in Landmark Village, Victoria Island, Lagos, recently, media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo backed the project with ₦1 billion, and revealed that the initiative will commence operations in January 2026 to set a new standard for the continent’s creative economy. He added that it will directly invest in individual creators with the vision and potential to grow into global media brands.

“Grants do not build empires. Mentorship does not scale industries. Capital does,” begins Jideonwo.

”The fund’s distinctive approach is more than a grant or training program; it is designed as a “record label for creators,” offering investment across multiple platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Substack, and more. The fund will be managed by Joy Inc., under the leadership of its new CEO, Jennifer Mairo,” Jideonwo said.

The summit itself revealed the diversity and strength of Africa’s creative ecosystem. Tomike Adeoye shared her transition from content creation to commerce, while Chichi Nworah, in discussion with Mykel Parish, mapped out strategies for scaling creative ventures.

David Adeleke, alongside Obi Asika (Director General, NCAC) and Ifeoma Oma Areh (Convener of DCA), unpacked the Nigeria Creative Economy Report, giving participants practical insights on how to navigate funding and growth.

The event also underscored the growing influence of Africa’s creative class and its potential to shape the global stage.

Panels also spotlighted future-facing opportunities. Orji Emmanuel (Tyla E) and Ayobami Oyaleke (Mainstack) explored brand monetization, while Malik Afegbua demonstrated the creative possibilities of AI. Sponsorship and brand building were tackled in a high-level session featuring leaders such as Mabel Adeteye, Franklin Ozekhome, Abiola Fabio, and Olufemi Oguntamu.

Streaming, storytelling, and community building were recurring themes, with speakers like Jesimiel Damina, Ariyike Owolagba, Sisi Yemmie, Tosin Ajibade (Olorisupergal), and Uchechi Ihuoma (Curately) emphasizing how African creators can transform niche audiences into profitable, sustainable businesses.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Ifeoma ‘Oma Areh said: “Digital Creator Africa is proof that Africa’s creator economy is no longer on the sidelines but moving to the center. With the launch of the Fourth Mainland Creator Fund, we are shaping a future where African creators do not just participate, they lead.”

With Africa’s creative economy projected to expand from $3.08 billion in 2023 to nearly $30 billion by 2032, the DCA Summit has signaled a new era, one where vision, structure, and capital fuel the continent’s creative revolution.