Chocolate City Music has announced two major initiatives aimed at nurturing emerging talent and fostering innovation within the African music industry.
The first initiative is the launch of NuTrybe Academy, a developmental resource designed to equip aspiring creatives with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the entertainment industry. The academy will offer training, mentorship, and guidance to help young talents navigate the complexities of the music business.
The second initiative is the establishment of the Chocolate City Music Founders Fund. This fund will provide financial backing and resources to young creative entrepreneurs, focusing on supporting female-led ventures. The initial phase of the fund will allocate up to $250,000, with plans for further expansion. The fund will officially launch in the first quarter of 2025 and is open to applicants worldwide.
The announcement was made at the BET Awards activation in Los Angeles, where the African independent record label marked the commencement of its 20th anniversary. The star-studded event, held in collaboration with Afr!Ca Haus, celebrated Black Music Month and brought together influencers across the African diaspora.
Abuchi Ugwu, chief executive officer of Chocolate City Music, emphasised the significance of these initiatives, stating, “We believe that Africa is a hotbed of creativity and talent. The Founders Fund and NuTrybe Academy are our way of investing in the future of this continent and empowering its creative voices to reach a global audience.”
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“Our Founders Fund is designed to provide opportunities for young people and companies wishing to enter the creative space. Chocolate City has benefited from a lot of support throughout its growth, and it’s important for us to give back to our community and help drive more success amongst our young entrepreneurs,” said Paul Okeugo, Co-founder of Chocolate City Music.
Over 400 guests attended the exclusive gathering, including executives and creatives from music, film, TV, fashion, arts, and business. Chocolate City Music will continue its anniversary celebrations in August, commemorating two decades of musical excellence and its ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and shaping the future of African music.
