If you are a Nigerian creative between 21 and 30 building something around sustainability, fashion, design or technology, the Swarovski Foundation wants to hear from you. The fifth cycle of Creatives For Our Future has opened, offering a €20,000 grant plus mentorship to creatives anywhere in the world.
This one stands out because it does not ask for a registered business or a long portfolio history. Individuals and sole proprietors can apply directly, which makes it genuinely accessible to Nigerian creatives who are still building their name.
Applications close November 9, 2026, giving you nearly two months to put together a strong submission.
About the Programme
Creatives For Our Future is run by the Swarovski Foundation together with the United Nations Office for Partnerships. The programme exists to back emerging creatives whose work connects to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, whether that is through fashion, jewellery, art, design, architecture, videography, photography, science, technology or engineering.
It is worth being clear about what this is not. Performing arts and literature, including music, creative writing and journalism, sit outside the scope. This is for creatives working with tangible or visual mediums who can show how their practice moves sustainable development forward.
Benefits
Selected creatives receive a €20,000 grant, plus one on one mentorship, educational masterclasses, industry networking and access to industry events. The grant is meant to fund an actual project or practice, not just cover living costs, and the programme runs from Fall 2027 through September 2028.
The mentorship and networking piece matters as much as the money for many Nigerian creatives trying to break into international creative and sustainability circles. This is a door into rooms that are usually hard to reach from Lagos or Abuja.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 21 to 30 years old by the application deadline
- Can live in any country, including Nigeria
- Must have a project, product, research or creative practice tied to sustainable development
- Must apply as an individual or sole proprietor, no registered company required
- Must hold a valid passport and be able to meet UK entry requirements if selected
- Must be able to deliver tangible project outcomes by September 2028
Documents Needed to Apply
The application leans heavily on how well you present your work, so give yourself real time for this. You will need a completed application form in English, a creative portfolio up to 50MB, a two minute introduction video, proof of age, a valid passport, and one academic or professional reference.
What to prepare:
- Application form completed in English
- Portfolio, up to 50MB
- Two minute introduction video
- Valid passport and proof of age
- One academic or professional reference
A two minute video and a tight portfolio are where most applicants lose points, not the idea itself. If your work currently lives scattered across social media with no proper home, a clean website makes your portfolio far easier for reviewers to follow. Our web design and development service can help you put together a professional portfolio site before you submit.
Key Details at a Glance
Programme: Swarovski Foundation Creatives For Our Future 2026
Organizer: Swarovski Foundation, in partnership with the UN Office for Partnerships
Eligible location: Worldwide, including Nigeria
Funding available: €20,000 grant plus mentorship, masterclasses and networking
Application deadline: November 9, 2026, 11:59 p.m. GMT
How to Apply
- Review the eligibility criteria and creative focus areas on the official Creatives For Our Future programme page.
- Prepare your portfolio, two minute introduction video and supporting documents.
- Complete the online application form in English on the official application page before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for online interviews expected in January 2027.
- Respond within four days if selected, since the Foundation requires quick confirmation to hold your place.
Final Thoughts
€20,000 plus real mentorship is a strong combination for a young Nigerian creative trying to turn a sustainability focused practice into something bigger. Give your video and portfolio the attention they deserve since that is what separates shortlisted applicants from the rest.
Check our list of latest opportunities for the month for more funding calls like this one worth your time.