For many startup founders, every successful business begins with a simple idea waiting for the right opportunity to grow. Sometimes it starts as a small side project, a rough concept written down somewhere, or a solution to a problem people face daily. What often makes the difference is access to guidance, structure, and the right support system.
That opportunity may now be available through iHatch Cohort 5, as the National Information Technology Development Agency through its Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation has opened applications for the latest edition of the startup support programme.
The initiative is designed to help early stage founders across Nigeria turn ideas into viable businesses by providing mentorship, practical learning, and access to innovation driven communities. Whether applicants are still refining an idea or already building a minimum viable product, the programme aims to support founders through the early stages of growth.
Rather than operating as a typical training programme, iHatch focuses on helping innovators gain real world experience while building solutions that can create impact within Nigeria’s growing technology ecosystem. Through partnerships with innovation hubs across the country, selected participants will have opportunities to connect with experienced professionals and other founders working on similar journeys.
Participants chosen for the programme will receive hands on startup training, mentorship from ecosystem experts, networking opportunities, and support designed to help them refine their products and business models. The programme is also expected to expose founders to Nigeria’s wider innovation landscape while encouraging collaboration and long term growth.
Applications are open to individuals with startup ideas, early stage products, or working prototypes who are passionate about solving real problems. Interested applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a technically capable team, and must have launched their startup within the last two years. Previous participants of the iHatch programme are not eligible to apply.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts by National Information Technology Development Agency and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation across the country. As more young Nigerians continue building solutions in different sectors, programmes like iHatch are becoming increasingly important in helping founders gain direction, confidence, and access to the support they need to scale their ideas.
Applications for iHatch Cohort 5 are currently open and will close on May 27, 2026.
