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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch iHatch Cohort 4, an initiative designed to support Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem.
The program, which runs from October 2024 to January 2025, will provide 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 is 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.
Programme Features
– Nationwide Reach: The program will support startups from all 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 will receive tailored support, with a focus on innovation and scalability.
-Capacity Building for Hubs: Innovation hubs will undergo training to enhance their ability to support startups with mentorship, facilities, networking, and access to funding.
-Demo Day and Investment Opportunities*: Startups will participate in a Demo Day to pitch their business ideas to investors, corporates, and ecosystem stakeholders, aiming to secure funding and partnerships.
Targeted Outcomes
– 90% of startups will incorporate with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) by the end of the program.
– 80% of startups will develop an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) ready for market testing.
– 30% of startups will secure investment from 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.
The iHatch Cohort 4 program 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.
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 NITDANigeria and ONDINigeria.
