Interswitch Advances Startup Growth, Supports Emerging Founders In Kano

Interswitch has sponsored the maiden edition of the Kano Startup Weekend, which took place from December 13 to 14, 2025.

LEADERSHIP reports that the maiden edition titled, ‘Igniting Innovation & Empowering Entrepreneurs’, played a pivotal role in supporting innovation and early-stage entrepreneurship.

Through mentorship sessions, networking forums, and active engagement during the startup pitch competition, the company provided practical insights, exposure to developer-friendly platforms, and guidance on building scalable digital businesses.

Speaking, the chief information officer, Interswitch, Patrick Okebu, emphasised the strategic importance of supporting regional innovation ecosystems.

He said, Kano Startup Weekend reflects the depth of entrepreneurial potential emerging from Northern Nigeria. At Interswitch, we recognise that innovation thrives when founders have access to the right platforms, mentorship, and enabling infrastructure.

“Our support for this event aligns with our commitment to empowering startups with payment and digital commerce solutions that help them build confidently, scale sustainably, and compete effectively in today’s economy,” Okebu stated.

Beyond individual mentorship and the pitch sessions, KSW 2025 created opportunities for meaningful collaboration between the public sector, private organisations, investors, and the startup community, demonstrating how strong partnerships can accelerate innovation and drive inclusive economic growth.

Interswitch noted that the KSW initiatives are critical to expanding economic opportunity, nurturing local talent, and strengthening Nigeria’s broader digital economy.

The KSW 2025 is the flagship entrepreneurship and innovation event hosted by the Kano State government through the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA).

Aligned with the Kano State Digital Transformation Agenda (2025–2030), the event aimed to ignite Kano’s startup ecosystem, foster collaboration, and position the state as a leading hub for technology and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.