The Idea Hatch incubation program (iHatch), an initiative by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has become a pillar program in supporting Nigeria’s burgeoning technology and innovation ecosystem.
iHatch is a 3-month free intensive incubation program designed to help Nigerian entrepreneurs refine their business ideas through a series of coaching, lectures, and boot camps, to generate viable and scalable business models. The incubation program will focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology among the youth.
Description
- Early-stage founders will receive hands-on training and mentorship, equipping them with the skills, tools, and strategies needed to build and scale sustainable startups in Nigeria’s dynamic business landscape.
- Participants will gain insights into business model development, product-market fit, and investor readiness, ensuring they are well-prepared to attract funding and scale their solutions effectively.
- The program will connect founders with industry experts, experienced mentors, and a network of fellow entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing to accelerate startup growth.
- Selected startups will benefit from tailored support, including one-on-one coaching, pitch preparation, and access to funding opportunities to help them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
- iHatch’s Startup Support Programme is open to early-stage startups across Nigeria with innovative solutions, strong market potential, and founders who demonstrate a commitment to building impactful and scalable businesses.
- Startups will receive structured training on critical areas such as business development, legal and regulatory compliance, customer acquisition strategies, and financial management to enhance their operational efficiency.
- Beyond training, founders will be supported with real-world exposure through networking events, demo days, and investor matchmaking sessions designed to help them secure partnerships and investment.
- Startups from diverse industries, including fintech, healthtech, agritech, edtech, and more, are encouraged to apply, as iHatch seeks to drive innovation and economic growth across multiple sectors.
- Through this initiative, iHatch aims to nurture high-potential startups that will contribute to job creation, technological advancement, and economic development across all 36 states and the FCT.
- By the end of the program, founders will have a clear roadmap for scaling their startups, a strong support network, and the foundational knowledge to thrive in the competitive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Skills