Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem continues to expand — and the iHatch Cohort 5 Programme is now inviting innovation hubs and early-stage startups nationwide to participate in its next incubation cycle.
Designed as a hub-first, nationwide model, this 10-month programme strengthens innovation infrastructure while supporting founders with structured training, mentorship, and access to growth opportunities.
Editorial Notice (Updated Application Link):
Global Scholar Desk has updated this article to reflect the correct and official application portal provided by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under NITDA. Applicants are advised to apply only through the verified ONDI portal linked below.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: Nigeria
- Programme Type: Nationwide Incubation & Ecosystem Development
- Funding Type: Capacity Building + Access to Equity-Free Grants & Investment Opportunities
- Eligible Applicants: Innovation Hubs & Early-Stage Startups in Nigeria
- Coverage: All 36 States + FCT
- Total Duration: 10 Months
- Application Window: February 23 – March 16, 2026
About the iHatch Cohort 5 Programme
The iHatch Cohort 5 Programme is Nigeria’s first truly nationwide incubation initiative, operating across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through a decentralized, hub-driven framework.
Rather than focusing solely on individual founders, iHatch strengthens the ecosystem around them. Selected innovation hubs receive structured training, certification, and capacity development support. These hubs, in turn, incubate early-stage startups within their regions.
This dual-track approach ensures that founders benefit from both national coordination and strong local support systems.
The programme is implemented in collaboration with:
- Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy
- National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)
- Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI)
- Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
This opportunity is officially offered by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under NITDA, and applicants should apply through the official application portal.
Programme Structure & Duration
The iHatch Cohort 5 Programme runs for 10 months, structured as follows:
1. Hub Training (5 Months)
- Hub onboarding and certification
- Tiered ranking assessment
- Capacity strengthening
2. Startup Incubation (5 Months)
- MVP development
- Legal incorporation guidance
- Market validation
- Sector-specific training
Additional components include:
- Expert mentorship and performance monitoring
- Regional and national Demo Days
- Investor engagement
- Post-programme ecosystem support
Strategic Sectors
The programme prioritizes startups building solutions in:
- FinTech
- AgriTech
- HealthTech
- EdTech
- CleanTech
- Logistics & Security
Impact Since Inception
The iHatch model has delivered measurable outcomes nationwide:
- 200+ startups supported
- 37 innovation hubs trained
- 1,000+ direct jobs created
- 100+ market-ready MVPs developed
Cohort 5 aims to strengthen monitoring systems and deepen sector-focused support across regions.
Eligibility Criteria
Innovation Hubs
Eligible hubs must:
- Operate within Nigeria
- Demonstrate commitment to ecosystem development
- Show readiness to undergo training and certification
- Participate in monitoring and evaluation processes
Startups & Entrepreneurs
Applicants should:
- Be early-stage founders
- Operate within priority sectors
- Demonstrate innovation and growth potential
- Commit to full participation in the programme
Benefits
Participants in the iHatch Cohort 5 Programme will gain access to:
- Structured incubation and training
- Business development workshops
- Industry mentorship and coaching
- Networking with investors and ecosystem partners
- Access to equity-free grants and investment opportunities
- Exposure at regional and national demo events
- Long-term ecosystem integration
For hubs, the benefit lies in long-term institutional strengthening. For startups, the advantage is structured support toward market readiness and scalability. If you are an individual entrepreneur or a trader, you can also explore the Petty Traders Grant Support Programme, which offers direct funding for small businesses.
Who Should Apply
This programme is best suited for:
- Innovation hubs seeking structured capacity building
- Startup founders building scalable solutions
- Entrepreneurs in underserved regions
- Ecosystem managers aiming to professionalize incubation delivery
If your goal is to build sustainable innovation capacity rather than short-term participation, this programme offers long-term value.
Application Process
To apply for the iHatch Cohort 5 Programme:
- Visit the official application portal.
- Select whether applying as a Hub or Startup.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit required information accurately.
- Await onboarding and screening updates.
Applications must be submitted within the official window.
How to Apply
Innovation hubs and early-stage startups across Nigeria are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
Ensure all information provided is accurate and submitted through the verified ONDI/NITDA portal.
For more details, visit the official iHatch Cohort 5 Programme.
