Got a Startup Idea? iHatch Cohort 5 Wants to Help You Build It

Every big startup starts with an idea. Sometimes it’s just...

Every big startup starts with an idea.

Sometimes it’s just a thought in your notes app.

Sometimes it’s a side project you’ve been quietly working on.

And sometimes, all you really need is the right support to finally take that next step.

That’s what iHatch Cohort 5 is about.

The Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), an initiative of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has officially opened applications for iHatch Cohort 5, a programme designed to support early-stage startup founders across Nigeria.

Whether you’re still shaping your idea or already building your MVP, iHatch is built to help founders move from “trying to figure it out” to actually building with structure, guidance, and community support.

So, What Exactly Is iHatch?

iHatch is more than just another startup programme.

It’s a founder-focused incubation experience created to help early-stage innovators learn, connect, build, and grow within Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

Through partnerships with innovation hubs across the country, selected founders will gain access to hands-on support, practical learning, mentorship, and opportunities that can help move their ideas forward.

The goal is simple:

Help promising Nigerian founders build solutions that can create real impact.

What Founders Will Get

Selected participants will gain access to:

Hands-on startup and business training

Mentorship from experienced ecosystem professionals

Access to innovation hubs and founder communities

Networking and collaboration opportunities

Practical support for refining ideas and building products

Exposure to Nigeria’s growing innovation ecosystem

Rather than focusing only on theory, iHatch is designed around practical learning, problem-solving, and helping founders understand what it really takes to build.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

Have an idea, product, or early-stage prototype

Are passionate about solving real problems

Are ready to build a startup in Nigeria

Are 18 years or older

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