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 program. This initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. The program aims to support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs across the country with tailored training, mentorship, and investment readiness. With the theme “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups,” the program launched in October 2024 and will run until January 2025.
According to Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the Director of Corporate Communications and External Relations at NITDA, iHatch Cohort 4 reflects the government’s commitment to economic diversification and digital innovation under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “iHatch Cohort 4 is a critical component of NITDA’s Digital Economy Policy, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, driving economic growth, and creating jobs by providing startups with tailored mentorship, training, and investment readiness. This initiative exemplifies President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic diversification and the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. The iHatch program is uniquely structured to offer comprehensive support to both startups and innovation hubs across the nation,” Umar stated. She added that the program’s dual approach would also enhance the capacity of innovation hubs to serve as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs.
According to the NITDA spokesperson, by the end of the program, 90% of the startups are expected to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), while 80% will develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) ready for market testing. Additionally, 30% of the trained startups are anticipated to secure investment, grants, or partnerships facilitated by the program. The startups aim to create 1,000 direct and indirect jobs through the startup and hub ecosystem. Umar emphasized that Nigeria is on the cusp of becoming a leading player in Africa’s digital transformation.
The initiative aims for equitable participation by supporting startups from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). High-impact sectors such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and civic tech are the primary focus areas.
Ms. Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator for the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation and iHatch Program Manager, highlighted the inclusivity of the initiative. “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 stated.
The program is a result of collaboration between NITDA and JICA. While NITDA shapes Nigeria’s IT sector through policies, standards, and regulations, JICA provides technical and financial support to advance development initiatives. Through previous iHatch cohorts, NITDA and JICA have laid a solid foundation for Nigeria’s digital transformation journey. The iHatch Cohort 4 program is expected to build on this momentum and further enhance the country’s position as a hub for innovation and technology.