The UK-Nigeria Tech Hub has partnered Startupbootcamp AfriTech and Ventures Platform to launch the iNOVO Accelerator.
The program seeks innovative startups working around health, agriculture and education that can offer disruptive solutions to the problems around the COVID-19 pandemic.
The three-month iNOVO accelerator program will utilize Startupbootcamp’s methodology via a two-way approach to accelerate 10 Nigerian early-stage startups solving pandemic-related challenges and also offering 100 startups a life-time of learning access to its digital Accelerator Squared platform.
Speaking on the launch of the program, Honey Ogundeyi, Country Director, UK-Nigeria Tech Hub:
“With the impact of COVID-19 on the economy, there’s a need to support promising early-stage startups who are driving innovative solutions to address problems caused by COVID-19 on some of the hub’s core areas – health, agriculture and education,”
“Through the iNOVO program, entrepreneurs will gain digital and entrepreneurship skills needed to scale their businesses.”
Benefits of the program
- Capacity building
- Lean startup training
- Networking opportunities
- Mentorship from dedicated entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Scaling of products and business models.
- The perfection of pitching skills via exposure to a wide audience of investors
Participating teams will be able to validate their solutions using pilots and proof of concept engagements.
Also read, UK-Nigeria Tech hub launches virtual capacity building programs
Also speaking on the collaboration, Mohamed Felata, Director of Programs at Ventures Platform Foundation, expressed his delight on the partnership while stating that it will support the growth of talented founders to create disruptive solutions in this pandemic era.
“After a devastating 2020, there is a greater need for Nigerian innovators to rise to the challenge. This is the time to build solutions that will not only help the affected industries heal, but also fortify them for the future.
We are looking to Nigerian innovators to show the world we have an important role to play in rebuilding the global economy,”.
Philip Kiracofe, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Startupbootcamp AfriTech, also commented that the accelerator program is backed by a global brand and calls for more African leaders to participate in iNOVO program so as to support upcoming Nigerian innovators.
How to apply
Are you a Nigerian innovator? You can go ahead to apply here. The deadline for application is Wednesday, February 24, 2021.
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