The virtual 2023 Accelerator Programme anchored by the Founder Institute, under a contract agreement with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has graduated 13 graduates.
The graduation of these graduates is a demonstration of exceptional dedication and innovation during the rigorous 14-week accelerator program.
Attended by key industry stakeholders, government officials and tech enthusiasts, it was emphasized that the collaborative efforts between NITDA and Founder Institute are fostering a vibrant tech innovation ecosystem in Nigeria.
The virtual Accelerator Programme aims to discover and nurture founders with innovative startup ideas in emerging technologies, including Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, e-Commerce, Software, Fintech, EdTech, Internet of Things (IoT) and Biotechnology.
The programme, which commenced on October 18, 2023, attracted a total of fifty founders, with 30 enrolled from NITDA and 20 from the Founder Institute. The accelerator featured 16 knowledge acquisition sessions, covering various aspects of entrepreneurship, product development, and mentorship.
In his address, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, commended the commitment of both NITDA and Founder Institute in upgrading the capacity of the new set of innovative portfolio startup companies.
He expressed satisfaction that the programme aligned with the government’s redefined priority aimed at leveraging technology for “Accelerating Diversification through Industrialisation, Digitisation, Creative Arts, Manufacturing and Innovation” and emphasised its harmony with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s strategic pillars.
Inuwa added that the ceremony further showed the Government’s recognition of digital innovation and entrepreneurship as catalysts for transforming traditional economic sectors. He cited The Nigeria Startup Act as a crucial piece of legislation offering favorable advantages such as regulatory support, tax reliefs/incentives, capacity building, talent development, effective accountability, and unambiguous governance guidelines for the country’s tech ecosystem.
Commending the graduates, the DG said “I congratulate the 13 founders who excelled at the programme. Your success in the programme is a clarion call for you to sustain the determination and diligence to gainfully explore the boundless innovative future that beckons at you.”
The rigorous review phases during the programme included Mentor Review sessions, Mentor Idea Review (MIR), Product Development sessions, and Mentor Progress Review (MPR) sessions.