The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), announces the launch of iHatch Cohort 4, an initiative designed to support Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem. October 2024 the programme was launched and will run through January 2025, providing 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs across Nigeria with the resources they need to scale and succeed in local and global markets.
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, uniquely structured to provide comprehensive support to both startups and innovation hubs across the nation. The program’s dual approach will not only equip startups with the tools to refine their business models and develop scalable products, but it will also strengthen the capacity of innovation hubs to act as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs.
“iHatch Cohort 4 will accelerate the growth of the startup ecosystem across Nigeria by equipping innovators with the knowledge, resources, and funding they need to turn their ideas into impactful businesses,” National Coordinator of the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation, the programme management team. “Through our partnership with JICA and local innovation hubs, we are building a more inclusive and vibrant digital economy in Nigeria.” Victoria Fabunmi, said:
The Programme Features: Nationwide Reach: The program will support startups from 36 states and the FCT, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs from all regions.
Sectoral Focus: Startups operating in high-impact sectors such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, logistics, edtech, and civic tech, with a focus on innovation and scalability support.
Capacity Building for Hubs: Innovation hubs will undergo training to enhance their ability support startups with mentorship, facilities, networking, access to funding and international partnerships.
Startups will participate in Demo Day to pitch their business ideas: investors, corporates, ecosystem stakeholders, and aims to secure funding and partnerships.
Targeted Outcomes: 90% startups will incorporate the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) at the end of program. 80% startups will develop an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) for market testing. 30% startups to secure investment, investors, grants, or partnerships facilitated by the programme.
1,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created through the startup and hub ecosystem. 70% of startups will remain operational 6 months after the programme, demonstrating long-term sustainability.
Why iHatch Cohort 4 Matters, Nigeria is on the verge of becoming a leading player in Africa’s digital transformation. The iHatch Cohort 4 program aligns with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), which seeks to build a strong knowledge economy and encourage innovation-driven enterprises (IDEs). Focusing on both startups and hubs, the program will catalyze economic diversification, job creation, and technology-driven solutions that will address local challenges and contribute to global competitiveness.
The program is also a direct contribution to the Nigerian Startup Act, which aims to foster an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive.
Call to Action: Applications for startups and innovation hubs are now open! Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the official iHatch website. The programme is seeking innovators and ecosystem builders who are committed to scaling sustainable solutions in Nigeria.
For more information on the programme, please visit programs.startup.gov.ng/ihatch, or follow us on social media at NITDA Nigeria and ONDINigeria.
About NITDA
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is responsible for shaping Nigeria’s IT sector through policy development, standards, and regulations. NITDA’s mission is to foster an inclusive and sustainable digital economy for Nigeria, driving growth through innovation and entrepreneurship.
About JICA
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is Japan’s premier development agency, providing financial and technical support to developing countries. JICA’s mission is to promote economic growth, sustainability, and human development worldwide.
Mrs Hadiza Umar fnipr f.apra
Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations
NITDA
