Creative DNA-Sanara (Nairobi) – Application Form
ABOUT CREATIVE DNA
Sanara is inspired by the Swahili words sanaa (arts) and biashara (business). This inclusive and forward-thinking programme is designed for young women and men across Kenya, enabling access to dignified and fulfilling work in the creative and cultural industries.
Funded by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented through a consortium of partners — HEVA, SNDBX, Baraza Media Lab, and GoDown Arts Center — the three-year initiative will focus on financing, skilling, infrastructure development, and the adoption of sustainable practices to create safer, more equitable working environments.
The British Council, Kenya implementing this programme through Mairgat Gold Enterprises Group (MGE Group), are responsible for managing the Fashion Business Incubator “Creative DNA–Sanara”, which focuses on equipping Kenya’s fashion entrepreneurs with the business and creative skills needed to thrive in local and international markets.
Creative DNA is a fashion and creative enterprise incubation programme designed to strengthen Kenya’s creative economy by supporting emerging designers and creative entrepreneurs to build sustainable, innovative, and globally competitive brands.
Since 2020, Creative DNA has successfully incubated over 71 creative businesses across Kenya, offering practical support in:
Business and brand development
Access to local and global markets
Mentorship and peer learning
Access to grants and funding opportunities
Now entering its fifth edition, Creative DNA Sanara will support early-stage fashion and accessory brands from six counties — Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kakamega, Turkana, and Nakuru — through a 6-month incubation and mentorship journey. We kick off the first cohort in NAIROBI county.
The programme is delivered by the British Council Kenya Arts Programme in collaboration with partners in Kenya and the UK, and is committed to diversity, creativity, inclusion, and sustainability in the creative industries.
KEY DATES
Applications Open: 14 November 2025
Application Deadline: 24 November 2025, 11:59 PM (EAT)
Selection & Notifications: December 2025
Programme Duration: December 2025 – May 2026
WHO CAN APPLY
We welcome applications from:
Emerging fashion and accessory designers or creative entrepreneurs based in Kenya
Individuals or teams from Nairobi
Early-stage brands or creative ideas looking to grow, learn, and connect
Creatives aged 18 and above, passionate about innovation and sustainability
(You do not need to have a registered company to apply.)
HOW TO APPLY
Fill in this application form carefully.
Attach or link any visuals of your work (optional but encouraged).
Submit before the deadline.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage.