Capital is one of the biggest gaps facing cultural, creative, and tourism (CCTI) businesses in the Middle East and Africa. In this practical masterclass, Abeer Abu Shmeis, Founder and Managing Director of Originative Capital, demystifies fundraising from first raise: what to ask yourself and what to ask for, which backers fund what, how to make your case, and how capital needs shift as a business matures. It is designed for founders at every stage, and for the investors, patrons, cultural professionals, and creatives who back them because we are all “invested: in culture.

You will leave with: Whether and when to raise capital, the ABCs of a first raise, in plain language, a clear sense of which capital fits your stage, an investor’s eye for creative businesses, your own role in investing in culture

Everyone who is invested in culture: Investment isn’t only about money, and it isn’t only for investors. Every 1833 member already invests ideas, expertise, introductions, attention, or capital.

This session is for: Founders building cultural, creative or tourism businesses, Investors and patrons exploring how to back startups and SMEs in these sectors, Cultural professionals who lend expertise, curation and credibility, Artists and creators whose work and IP create the value, Aficionados and communities whose attention and loyalty make culture thrive