The Creative Business Cup is an international startup competition designed to spotlight and support entrepreneurs in the creative industries. Each year, national champions from across the globe are invited to Copenhagen to compete for cash prizes, investor interest, and international exposure. The competition fosters innovation, promotes cross-border collaboration, and serves as a vital gateway for creative entrepreneurs seeking to scale their ventures and connect with a global network.
About the Competition
Held annually, the Creative Business Cup brings together startups from more than 100 countries. The program focuses on empowering creative entrepreneurs through a multi-phase competition that begins at the national level and culminates in a global pitch event in Denmark.
Program Overview:
- National Competitions: Startups first compete at a national level. For example, in Botswana, entrepreneurs submit online applications for a chance to present at the local finals. A panel of industry professionals, investors, and government representatives selects the national winner.
- Global Finals in Copenhagen: National winners advance to pitch in front of an international jury and a panel of investors. This stage includes extensive networking opportunities, workshops, and visibility for startups on a global stage.
What the Program Offers
The Creative Business Cup provides far more than a pitch competition. It offers a comprehensive support system aimed at accelerating creative startups:
- Access to a Global Network: Participants gain entry to an international community of startups, investors, corporations, and governments.
- Investor Readiness Programs: Tailored workshops and initiatives enhance participants’ ability to attract funding.
- Capacity Building: The program strengthens entrepreneurship support organizations and ecosystems.
- Industry Feedback: Startups receive insights from seasoned investors and fellow entrepreneurs.
- International Exposure: Finalists benefit from visibility and product feedback from diverse, global audiences.
- Cash and Special Prizes: The competition awards a total of USD 190,000 in prize money.
- National Representation: Winners have the chance to represent their home countries on a global stage.
Creative Business Cup by the Numbers
- $190,000 in prize value
- 5,000+ startups engaged
- 500+ guests annually
- 100+ startup pitches each year
- 60 countries represented
- 29 expert speakers
- 10 selected investor pitch sessions
Previous National Winners from Botswana
Since joining the Creative Business Cup, Botswana has seen several startups take the global stage:
- 2023: Anton Tech, Optimum Quality
- 2022: Creative Cart
- 2021: Doctor’s eConsult
- 2020: Glow in a Jar
- 2019: TruAfribites
- 2018: Just Ginger
- 2017: Maungo Craft
These ventures have contributed to Botswana’s growing reputation in the creative and entrepreneurial sectors.
Why This Program Matters
The Creative Business Cup plays a pivotal role in uplifting entrepreneurs from developing markets by offering exposure, mentorship, and market access. For startups from countries like Botswana, the competition provides a rare opportunity to connect with international investors, gain feedback from a global consumer base, and scale their innovations beyond domestic borders.
Application Details
- Applications for the 2025 edition are now open.
- Deadline to apply: July 11, 2025
- Startups interested in participating in the Botswana national competition can apply online for a chance to compete in the local finals and potentially advance to the global stage in Copenhagen.
For more information, updates, or to apply, interested parties are encouraged to connect with local representatives or follow official channels.
The Creative Business Cup stands as a unique accelerator for innovation within the creative industries, offering startups the tools, exposure, and support needed to thrive in the global market. By bringing together national champions from around the world, the program not only celebrates creativity but also transforms ideas into sustainable ventures.
For entrepreneurs ready to represent their country and scale their impact internationally, the Creative Business Cup is an opportunity worth exploring. Applications close on July 11, 2025.