Lenses to Riches: Bayo Omoboriowo’s Mad House by Tikera Africa launches an entrepreneurial incubator program for lens-based change-makers

MAD House by Tikera Africa is a creative incubation hub committed to driving a fresh discourse on the African continent where creative entrepreneurship is at the forefront of economic growth. This project which was conceived by the multi award winning creative artist and art manager Bayo Omoboriowo is set to be a game changer in the creative ecosystem of Nigeria.

For its inaugural programming, MAD House has officially introduced the Lens-Based Incubator Programme (LENSBIP). This three-month incubation opportunity is designed specifically for 20 aspiring creative leaders and entrepreneurs working in the field of digital art, film, animation, photography and other lens-based mediums. The objective of the programme is to provide these change-makers entrepreneurial development opportunities and seed funding to turn their creative ideas into viable and scalable businesses.

According to Bayo Omoboriowo, Founder of MAD House by Tikera Africa, “LENSBIP is the springboard creative need to transform visionary ideas into tangible, high-impact products and services, shaping a new narrative for the Africa we want through the lens.” Our objective is to foster sustainable creative industries not only in Nigeria but also globally by providing financial support, mentorship and knowledge investment to aid development.

The cohort of 20 change-makers will be selected on the strength of their business potential, social impact, innovation, and creativity. They will have full access to specialized workshops, case studies, internships, and equipment. They will also be exposed to, and collaborate with, a pool of top global business and creative industry leaders. At the conclusion of the program, the participants will present their refined business plans and prototypes before a carefully curated panel of judges in order to win up to $10,000 USD in seed funding, to launch and sustain their creative enterprises.

The LENSBIP application is free and open until January 8, 2024. Applicants must have robust creative portfolios, fall within the age range of 18 to 35, and be available to participate fully in the incubation program from January 15 to April 30, 2024. A comprehensive list of eligibility requirements and application guidelines can be found at www.tikeraafrica.org/madhouse.

Mad House was developed in collaboration with the University of Lagos and recently received the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during this visit to Nigeria where he met with some of African’s top creatives.