The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced the commencement of the Application Process for the Bridge to MassChallenge Nigeria Programme (B2MC).
It may be recalled that early this year, NITDA signed a partnership arrangement with MassChallege, a global network of zero-equity startup accelerators. The partnership was aimed at stimulating economic vitality and job creation in Nigeria by catalyzing entrepreneurial activity and supporting entrepreneurs as they develop and execute game-changing ideas, digital technologies, and discoveries.
The commencement of the application process followed a comprehensive stakeholder engagement with key players in the ecosystem. These include Government, Academia, Entrepreneurs, Angels and VCs, Corporate Organisations, Media, and Influencers.
The application is open to entrepreneurs who want to take their businesses to the next level. Early-stage and growth-stage startups from all over the country, working on innovative solutions from any industry are encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants will participate in an intensive, 4-month program that encompasses both online and in-person portions where startups develop and implement bespoke project plans to further their localisation journeys. They will also receive:
· tailored mentoring and coaching offered by NITDA and other local mentors, local and global mentors of the MassChallenge network and the entrepreneurial ecosystem;
· tailored curriculum based on startups’ specific needs;
· investment opportunities by facilitating connections to investors and a private demo-day; and
· Access to the MassChallenge global network.
Speaking at the official launch of the application process, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General/CEO, NITDA, said “a vibrant startup ecosystem is highly critical to the future of our country and it’s vital to finding solutions to our numerous challenges. Innovation is a prominent way of creating prosperity for all and lifting countries out of poverty. He further noted that “Considering this, NITDA and MassChallenge have continued to partner in this new initiative to catalyze and foster the growth and success of the country’s startup ecosystem in line with the vision of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy for a Digital Nigeria.”
Also speaking at the event, Siobhan Dullea, CEO of MassChallenge, said “MassChallenge is excited to be working with NITDA to help entrepreneurs in Nigeria grow locally while having access to the MassChallenge global network. We look forward to working with NITDA to continue to support and grow the Nigerian innovation ecosystem.”
Interested applicants and those wishing to learn more about the programme are encouraged to visit the B2MC Nigeria website. Note that Applications for the B2MC Nigeria programme closes on the 24th of September 2021.
