The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched the fourth edition of the iHatch programme.
This initiative, which commenced in October 2024 and runs until January 2025, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s startup sector through capacity-building efforts for startups and innovation hubs across the country.
According to NITDA, the iHatch Cohort 4 programme is set to support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs nationwide with a mix of mentorship, training, and investment readiness.
The initiative aligns with the government’s goal to diversify the economy and enable digital innovation under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Director of Corporate Communications at NITDA, Mrs Hadiza Umar, described the initiative as a cornerstone of the agency’s Digital Economy Policy.
She noted that the programme is structured to provide startups with the tools to develop viable business models and scalable products while enhancing the capacity of innovation hubs to serve as effective incubators for entrepreneurial talent.
By the end of the initiative, it is anticipated that 90% of participating startups will formalise their operations with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Added to this, 80% are expected to create a minimum viable product (MVP) ready for market testing, and 30% will secure funding through grants, partnerships, or investments. The combined efforts of startups and innovation hubs are projected to generate 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The programme seeks to ensure nationwide representation by including participants from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It also prioritises high-impact sectors such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech, which are critical to Nigeria’s economic and social development.
National Coordinator for the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation and iHatch Programme Manager, Ms Victoria Fabunmi, highlighted the inclusive nature of the initiative.
She emphasised that the partnership with JICA and local innovation hubs aims to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into impactful enterprises while promoting a rich and inclusive digital economy.
The iHatch Cohort 4 initiative includes tailored training sessions for innovation hubs to strengthen their capacity to provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and funding access for startups.
A “Demo Day” will serve as a platform for startups to pitch their ideas to investors, fostering opportunities for funding and strategic partnerships.
The programme also promotes international collaboration, providing exposure for startups and innovation hub managers to scale their innovations on a global stage.
NITDA has encouraged interested startups and innovation hubs to apply through the official iHatch website to benefit from the programme’s offerings.
While NITDA leads policy formulation and regulatory efforts, JICA provides technical and financial support for developmental initiatives.
Building on the achievements of previous iHatch cohorts, this latest edition aims to further position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
In enhancing innovation and supporting scalable enterprises, iHatch Cohort 4 promotes technology as a driver of economic growth and development.
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