The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launches iHatch Cohort 4 to strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. This program trains 185 startups and supports 37 innovation hubs nationwide, focusing on innovation, mentorship, and market readiness. Running from October 2024 to January 2025, it operates under the theme, “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups.”
Program Goals and Impact
Hadiza Umar, NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications, highlights that the program aligns with Nigeria’s Digital Economy Policy and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“iHatch Cohort 4 boosts entrepreneurship, fosters economic growth, and creates jobs through specialized training and mentorship. This reflects our commitment to diversifying the economy and supporting the digital sector,” she explains.
The dual approach benefits both startups and innovation hubs, enhancing their role as sustainable incubators.
Key Targets and Expected Outcomes
By the end of the program:
- 90% of startups register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
- 80% develop Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) ready for market testing.
- 30% secure investments or grants facilitated through the program.
The initiative aims to generate 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s growing tech sector.
Inclusivity and Sector Focus
The program ensures equitable support for startups across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It targets sectors like fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech.
Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator for the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation, emphasizes the inclusive nature:
“Our collaboration with JICA builds a digital economy where innovators from every region can turn ideas into impactful businesses.”
Program Highlights
- Innovation Hub Training: Capacity-building for hubs to mentor and fund startups effectively.
- Demo Day: Startups pitch ideas to investors, fostering funding opportunities and partnerships.
- Global Partnerships: International exposure boosts scalability and innovation.
Application Details
Applications for startups and hubs are open on the official iHatch website. This collaboration between NITDA and JICA builds on previous successes, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as an emerging hub for technology and innovation.
, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launches iHatch Cohort 4 to strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. This program trains 185 startups and supports 37 innovation hubs nationwide, focusing on innovation, mentorship, and market readiness. Running from October 2024 to January 2025, it operates under the theme, “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups.”){kind=link}