Deadline: May 27, 2026
Applications are open for the iHatch Startups Incubation Programme 2026. The iHatch Cohort 5 Startup Incubation Programme is a 4-month, execution-focused programme designed for early-stage founders who are ready to turn ideas into real, working businesses.
iHatch supports startups building solutions with strong local relevance and global potential across key sectors driving Nigeria’s development.
- FinTech: Financial technology solutions for banking, lending, and payments
- AgriTech: Agricultural innovation for productivity and market access
- HealthTech: Digital health solutions and telemedicine platforms
- EdTech: Educational technology and digital learning solutions
- CleanTech: Environmental and sustainable energy solutions
- Logistics & Security: Civic technology and security innovation
Benefits
- Hands-On Training: Business & Skills Workshops
- Mentorship & Networking: Guidance from Industry Experts
- Access to Resources: Funding & Market Opportunities
Eligibility
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be based in Nigeria (any of the 36 states or FCT)
- Must apply as a team (minimum of 2 members)
- Must have at least one full time team member with technical capacity
- Startup must be in early stage (idea, prototype, or MVP stage)
- Must be available to participate fully for the 4-month duration
Specific Rules
- Teams must commit a minimum of 10 hours per week to the programme
- Founders must be willing to work with an assigned innovation hub
- Selected startups must submit bi-weekly progress reports
- Startups must actively participate in all programme sessions and activities
- Multiple applications from the same team/startup are not allowed
Evaluation Criteria
- Innovation & Originality (25%): Assess how unique and differentiated the startup’s solution is compared to existing alternatives. Evaluate the clarity of the problem being solved, the originality of the approach, and the potential to significantly improve or change current solutions, markets, or user behavior.
- Scalability & Market Potential (25%): Assess the startup’s potential to grow and reach a large market. Evaluate the strength of the value proposition, understanding of target customers, market size, and whether the business model can scale efficiently without a proportional increase in costs.
- Feasibility & MVP Readiness (20%): Assess whether the startup can realistically build or refine a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) within the programme timeline. Evaluate the clarity of the execution plan, understanding of required resources, and the team’s ability to navigate technical and operational challenges.
- Team Capability (15%): Assess the strength and readiness of the founding team to execute the idea. Evaluate team composition, relevant skills (technical, business, domain), level of commitment, initiative shown so far, and openness to learning and feedback.
- Impact (15%): Assess the potential of the startup to create meaningful economic or social impact. Evaluate alignment with key sectors, potential for job creation, ability to address local challenges, and contribution to improving livelihoods or underserved communities.
Application
To apply, you have to submit:
- Pitch deck (if available) (PDF)
- Video Pitch (if available) (URL)
- CAC registration document (if available) (PDF)
- Any supporting evidence (user research, traction, pilots, etc.) (DOCX)
For more information, visit iHatch Startups Incubation.
