The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has launched the iHatch Cohort 4 programme to accelerate Nigeria’s startup growth. Running from October 2024 to January 2025, the initiative will support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs nationwide through mentorship, training, and investment readiness.
Hadiza Umar, NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications, described the programme as part of the government’s economic diversification strategy under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “The iHatch Cohort 4 embodies our commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving economic growth by empowering startups and strengthening innovation hubs,” Umar said.
Themed “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups,” the programme aims to enhance the capacity of innovation hubs to act as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs. It also focuses on promoting equitable participation by including startups from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with an emphasis on high-impact sectors such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech.
By the programme’s conclusion, NITDA projects that 90% of participating startups will incorporate with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), while 80% will develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) ready for market testing. Additionally, 30% of startups are expected to secure investments through partnerships, grants, or investors facilitated by the programme.
The initiative is also anticipated to generate 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as a hub for digital innovation in Africa. Umar noted, “This programme is a testament to Nigeria’s potential to lead Africa’s digital transformation and foster a globally competitive startup ecosystem.”
iHatch Cohort 4 aligns with NITDA’s Digital Economy Policy, which seeks to create a vibrant entrepreneurial landscape while promoting innovation and economic growth across Nigeria. It is a strategic step toward making Nigeria a leader in Africa’s tech-driven future.
