In recent years, Cuba has embarked on a major process of modernising its economic system, introducing a regulatory framework that recognises an increasingly important role for the so-called new economic actors: the self-employed, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, non-agricultural cooperatives and local development projects. This development opens up new opportunities for the cultural and creative sector as well, which is called upon to contribute to the economic and social development of local areas by promoting their identity, heritage and capacity for innovation.

It is within this context that Zone Creative is situated, a project funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implemented in Matanzas by ARCS Culture Solidali, in collaboration with the Office of the Conservator of the City of Matanzas. The initiative supports the creation and consolidation of an ecosystem of cultural and creative industries in the historic centre of Matanzas, fostering the development of businesses and initiatives capable of generating economic, cultural and social value for the city, with a particular focus on the participation of women and young people.

With the launch of the Microfinance Programme, the project is now entering a new phase. Following months of training and support, the new economic actors who have completed the programme promoted by Zone Creative will be able to submit their proposals to access funding aimed at strengthening their activities.

The programme does not fund the launch of new businesses, but supports the consolidation of initiatives already in operation through the acquisition of equipment, technology, tools and services necessary to improve the quality of the products and services offered, increase production capacity and foster the development of their activities. For each selected proposal, funding will be allocated through a transparent assessment procedure based on the quality of the project, its sustainability and the contribution it can make to local development.

The training programme and the Microfinance Programme have been jointly designed by ARCS and the Oficina del Conservador de la Ciudad de Matanzas to address the needs expressed by local cultural and creative practitioners. The aim is to provide practical tools to strengthen existing activities in the area, promoting innovation, sustainability and the enhancement of cultural heritage as central elements of local development.

Through this initiative, Zone Creative is helping to consolidate an entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of linking culture, creativity and regional development, supporting the growth of businesses which, thanks to their expertise and deep roots in the community, can become key players in the economic and cultural transformation of Matanzas.