The National Information Technology Development Agency, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency, has launched the iHatch Cohort 4 programme to enhance Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
The initiative will provide tailored training, mentorship, and investment readiness support to 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs across the country.
Running from October 2024 to January 2025, the programme aims to foster innovation, build ecosystems, and scale startups.
The Director of Corporate Communications and External Relations at NITDA, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, stated that iHatch Cohort 4 aligns with the government’s commitment to economic diversification and digital innovation as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“iHatch Cohort 4 is a critical part of NITDA’s Digital Economy Policy, designed to foster entrepreneurship, drive economic growth, and create jobs by providing startups with tailored mentorship, training, and investment readiness.
“This initiative reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, focusing on economic diversification and the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
“The iHatch programme is uniquely structured to provide comprehensive support to both startups and innovation hubs across the nation,” Umar said.
She further emphasized that the programme’s dual approach would enhance the capacity of innovation hubs, enabling them to serve as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs.
The NITDA spokesperson revealed that by the end of the programme, 90% of the startups would be incorporated with the Corporate Affairs Commission, while 80% would develop a Minimum Viable Product ready for market testing.
Additionally, 30% of the trained startups are expected to secure investments, grants, or partnerships facilitated by the programme.
The startups are also projected to create 1,000 direct and indirect jobs within the startup and hub ecosystem.
Umar stated that Nigeria was on the verge of becoming a leading player in Africa’s digital transformation.
The programme focuses on high-impact sectors, including fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech.
The National Coordinator for the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation and iHatch Programme Manager, Victoria Fabunmi, highlighted the initiative’s emphasis on inclusivity.
“By partnering with JICA and local innovation hubs, we’re building a more inclusive digital economy where innovators can turn ideas into impactful businesses,” she said.
The programme results from a partnership between NITDA and JICA. NITDA drives the development of Nigeria’s IT sector through policies, standards, and regulations, while JICA provides the technical and financial support needed to advance development initiatives.
