Applications are now open for the iHatch Cohort 5 Hub Upskilling Programme, a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen innovation hubs and empower startup ecosystems across Nigeria. The programme is calling on experienced innovation hubs with the right structure, team, and operational capacity to help nurture the next generation of founders.
iHatch 5.0 will onboard 37 Innovation Hubs to lead structured startup training and ecosystem development efforts within their communities. Selected hubs will work closely with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) to deliver high-quality incubation support. The goal is to equip early-stage founders with mentorship, practical programmes, and access to valuable networks that can accelerate their growth and sustainability.
Through this initiative, participating hubs will gain access to a proven incubation framework, including practical tools and templates to strengthen how they design and deliver startup programmes. They will also receive guided onboarding, hands-on training sessions, and real-time support to improve programme delivery, reporting standards, and founder engagement strategies.
To be eligible, hubs must have operated for at least one year and demonstrate a clear track record of supporting startups or innovation-driven initiatives. Applicants must show commitment to startup ecosystem development, have experience in innovation management or startup support, and possess physical infrastructure suitable for incubation activities.
Interested hubs are required to submit their CAC registration certificate, links to their social media handles, and reports from past innovation events organized or co-implemented by the hub.
Applications open on 23rd February 2026 and close on 16th March 2026. Eligible hubs can apply through the official portal at https://app.innox.africa/applicant/ihatch-cohort-5.
