iHatch
A NITDA-run, free, 4-month incubation programme — strictly for founders. One cohort per year. NITDA selected Startup Bauchi to host this cohort in Bauchi State, giving northern Nigeria founders access to national-level startup infrastructure without leaving home.
Applications closed · Next cohort: September 2026
Registration is managed directly by NITDA. When the next cohort opens, applications will be available on NITDA's platform. Follow Startup Bauchi for updates.
See the processAbout iHatch
NITDA's programme. Running nationally since cohort one.
iHatch is an ONDI/NITDA initiative: a nationwide programme that selects innovation hubs across Nigeria to host structured incubation for early-stage startups in their states. Now in its fifth national cohort, the programme has supported hundreds of founders across the country.
Startup Bauchi's role
Selected by NITDA to host this cohort.
NITDA evaluated and selected Startup Bauchi as the host organisation for this round of iHatch in Bauchi State. We provide the space, the delivery, and the local context. NITDA provides the programme framework, credibility, and national network.
The process
Four phases.
One outcome.
The 4-month programme is broken into structured phases, each with clear inputs, outputs, and milestones.
Application & Selection
We review applications for founders with a real problem, coachability, and urgency. Not just a pitch deck.
Onboarding & Discovery
A structured deep dive into your startup. Validating assumptions before any building begins.
Program Execution
The 4-month core: weekly mentor sessions, workshops, milestone reviews, and peer accountability.
Demo Day & Graduation
Pitch your progress to investors and partners. Leave with traction, not just a certificate.
Programme benefits
What you walk away with
A physical base
Co-working space access throughout the full 4 months. A desk where the work happens.
Mentorship that ends in action
Structured sessions with people who've built things. Tight feedback loops, clear next steps.
Workshops built for execution
Validation, product, go-to-market, pitch. Theory only when it leads somewhere.
Investor and partner access
Warm introductions earned through demonstrated progress, not just showing up.
Founder fit
Is this for you?
We look for founders who
Have a specific problem they're solving, not just an idea
Are coachable and honest about what they don't know
Can commit fully in person for 4 months
Are building in or for northern Nigeria
Not the right fit if you
Are looking for funding before they have any traction
Expect a certificate more than a working product
Can't commit to regular in-person presence in Bauchi
Aren't ready to be held to weekly milestones
Next cohort · September 2026
Applications reopen in September.
Registration is handled by NITDA directly, not through this website. When the next cohort opens, applications will be available on NITDA's platform. Stay close to Startup Bauchi for updates.