NITDA, Japanese Agency Launch iHatch Cohort4 To Support Startups

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.

This was disclosed in a statement  signed on Sunday by director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations NITDA, Hadiza Umar  with the theme “Fostering Innovation, Building Ecosystems, Scaling Startups.”

According to Umar 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.

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,” Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator of the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation, the programme management team said.

“Through our partnership with JICA and local innovation hubs, we are building a more inclusive and vibrant digital economy in Nigeria,” she added.

The program will support startups from all 36 states and the FCT, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs from all regions.

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.

Innovation hubs will undergo training to enhance their ability to support startups with mentorship, facilities, networking, and access to funding. The programme will also foster international partnerships and exposure for hub managers.

Startups will participate in a Demo Day to pitch their business ideas to investors, corporates, and ecosystem stakeholders, aiming to secure funding and partnerships.

As part of the targeted outcomes, 90 per cent of startups will incorporate with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) by the end of the programme.

According to them, 80 per cent of startups will develop an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) ready for market testing while 30 per cent 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, while 70 per cent of startups will remain operational six months after the programme, demonstrating long-term sustainability.