By Balarabe Oshiafi
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has announced the launch of iHatch Cohort 4, an initiative designed to support Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem.
A release signed by NITDA’s Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hadiza Umar on Sunday said the programme is themed “fostering innovation, building ecosystem, scaling startups”
According to her, the programme was officially launched in October 2024 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.
She said: “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.
“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,” said Victoria Fabunmi, 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.”
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