Sanara is an inclusive program by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with HEVA Fund, SNDBX, Baraza Media Lab, and GoDown Arts Centre. The program supports young people in Kenya’s creative and cultural industries to access dignified and fulfilling work opportunities. It addresses challenges such as limited access to finance, business support, and growth opportunities in the creative sector. The program provides financing, business support, and ecosystem strengthening to help young creatives start, sustain, and grow their enterprises. It aims to promote sustainable livelihoods and expand opportunities for young women and men in the creative economy.
Opportunity Being Advertised
Applications are open for the SANARA Program, an initiative offering financing and business support for young people in Kenya’s creative and cultural industries.
The opportunity is intended for young women and men aged 18–35 years who are working in or starting businesses in fashion, garments, beauty and accessories, film, television, content creation, gaming, audio-visual production, live music, theatre, and performing arts. Refugees and persons with disabilities are also encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants will access:
• Business financing through loan facilities (Ota Kopa and Ota Kopa+)
• Support to strengthen and grow creative enterprises
• Access to markets and industry opportunities
• Business development support within the creative sector
Program activities and support will be implemented in selected counties across Kenya.
No application fees are required.
Who Can Apply
Age Range:
18–35 years
Location / Counties: Kakamega, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, and Turkana counties
Gender Requirements:
Young women are strongly encouraged to apply. Young men are also eligible. Refugees and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Education or Skill Requirements:
No formal education requirements. Applicants must be actively involved or intending to start a creative or cultural enterprise.
Any Other Requirements:
• Must be working or planning to work in the creative and cultural industries
• Must demonstrate interest in building or growing a creative enterprise
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
Complete the application form using the link provided below.
Prepare required documents depending on whether applying as an individual or business.
Submit the application before the deadline and ensure all information is complete.
Application Submission Link: https://www.hevafund.com/ota-kopa-loans
Email Address (for enquiries and application support): Tabitha Masese [email protected]
Application Deadline:
There is no fixed application deadline. Applications are reviewed and evaluated on a rolling basis throughout the year.
If you do not hear from us within two weeks after the end of the relevant recruitment cycle, please consider your application unsuccessful. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next steps.