The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has announced the launch of the iHatch Cohort 4 programme.
The Initiative is designed to bolster Nigeria’s startup ecosystem,with the theme “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups.”
Launched in October 2024, the programme is to run until January 2025.
The cohort 4 aims to support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs nationwide with tailored training, mentorship, and investment readiness.
According to Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications and External Relations at NITDA, iHatch Cohort 4’s primary focus is on high impact sectors like fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech.
She added that the initiative aims to ensure participation by startups from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Objectives of iHatch Cohort 4
According to the NITDA spokesperson, by the end of the programme,
- 90% of the startups will incorporate with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC),
- 80% of them will develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) ready for market testing.
- 30% of the trained startups would secure investment from investors, grants, or partnerships facilitated by the program.
- The startups are expected to create 1,000 direct and indirect jobs through the startup and hub ecosystem.
Programme highlights
According to NITDA, highlights of the programme include:
- Innovation Hub Training: Innovation hubs will undergo capacity-building sessions to enhance their ability to support startups with mentorship, facilities, networking, and funding access.
- Demo Day: Startups will pitch their ideas to investors and stakeholders, providing a platform to secure funding and forge strategic partnerships.
- Global Partnerships: The programme fosters international exposure for hub managers and startups, promoting scalability and innovation.
Mrs Umar said that application for startups and innovation hubs are open and interested applicants can apply through the official iHatch website.
To apply visit programs.startup.gov.ng/ihatch, or follow NITDA on social media at NITDANigeria and ONDINigeria.