Selected for iHatch Cohort 5!
iHatch Cohort 5: Call for Applications
Nigeria's premier startup incubation programme is looking for high-potential, tech-enabled solutions.
Apply through DigitalAbode, an official authorized hub for iHatch Cohort 5 selection and support.
What is iHatch Cohort 5?
iHatch Cohort 5 is a four-month, execution-focused startup incubation programme for early-stage founders in Nigeria. It supports founders to build MVPs, validate products with real users, structure their businesses, and prepare for funding and growth.
Who should apply?
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must be based in Nigeria
- You must apply as a team with a minimum of 2 members
- Your team should have at least one full-time member with technical capacity
- Your startup should be at idea, prototype, or MVP stage
- You must be available to participate fully for the 4-month programme
- Your team must be able to commit at least 10 hours per week
DigitalAbode RFS alignment
As an official iHatch hub, we prioritize startups building in DigitalAbode's core Request for Startups areas. If you are solving problems in these sectors at idea or MVP stage, we want to hear from you.
How we support your application
DigitalAbode is an authorized selection and support hub for iHatch Cohort 5. We help you build a compelling case for selection.
Understand the opportunity
We guide you through the iHatch programme requirements, expectations, and how to position your startup for success.
Get Screened
We evaluate your startup for eligibility, team strength, stage fit, problem clarity, and execution potential as part of the iHatch selection process.
Strengthen your application
Shortlisted teams receive direct support to refine their answers, pitch decks, and evidence to meet iHatch's high standards.
Prepare supporting materials
We help you organize critical documentation, including pitch decks, product demos, CAC documents, and traction evidence.
Final Submission
Once verified, your application is advanced to the final stage of the official iHatch Cohort 5 selection.
What iHatch evaluates
Understanding the scoring framework helps you prepare a stronger official application.
Innovation & Originality
How novel and differentiated is the solution in its market context.
Scalability & Market Potential
Does the venture have the potential to grow significantly and serve a large addressable market.
Feasibility & MVP Readiness
Can the team actually build and deliver the product within a reasonable timeframe.
Team Capability
Does the team have the skills, commitment, and composition to execute.
Impact
What is the potential social, economic, or environmental impact of the solution.
The iHatch Hub selection pathway
Submit Application via DigitalAbode
Apply through our official hub portal to begin the iHatch Cohort 5 selection process.
Hub Review & Screening
Our team assesses your submission against iHatch eligibility and readiness criteria.
Application Support & Refinement
Selected startups receive hands-on support to optimize their application for the final review.
Official Portal Submission
Verified applications are guided through the final submission on the ONDI/iHatch portal.
Final Selection & Onboarding
We track your progress and coordinate with iHatch partners for the final cohort selection.
Important Disclaimer
DigitalAbode is an authorized official hub for iHatch Cohort 5. Applications submitted through this portal are reviewed as part of the official selection process. Shortlisted startups will be guided to finalize their submission on the primary ONDI/iHatch portal for administrative completion.
On Funding & Outcomes
DigitalAbode does not guarantee funding or programme selection. Our support is focused on funding readiness, investment readiness, and growth readiness — preparing you to put your best application forward. Outcomes depend on the official iHatch evaluation process managed by ONDI/NITDA/JICA.
Official iHatch Programme Partners
DigitalAbode is an authorized official hub. The iHatch programme is managed by ONDI, NITDA, JICA, and FMCIDE.
National IT Development Agency
Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation
Japan International Cooperation Agency
Federal Ministry of Communications
Ready to join iHatch Cohort 5?
Submit your application through the DigitalAbode hub to begin your journey toward Nigeria's premier startup incubation programme.