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, an initiative designed to bolster Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
The programme aims to support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs nationwide with tailored training, mentorship, and investment readiness.
With the theme “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups,” the programme launched in October 2024 is to run until January 2025.
According to Mrs. Hadiza Umar, 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 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,” Umar said.
She added that the programme with its dual approach would also strengthen the capacity of innovation hubs to act as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs.
(Nairametrics)
