Israel Backs 40 Nigerian Startups in Tech Hub Initiative

No fewer than 40 startups will participate in the fourth phase of recruitment under the Innovate8 initiative, a technology hub backed by the Israeli government.

The initiative, which has so far supported 132 innovators, is aimed at promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, capacity building, and venture creation in Nigeria.

Innovate8 serves as a centre for startup incubation, technology transfer, prototype development, and skill acquisition.

It operates as a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation with a mandate to drive socio-economic growth and human capital development through creativity and innovation.

Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren  Haskel-Harpaz, who announced the expansion on Tuesday in Abuja, disclosed that the programme has attracted significant foreign investment.

Haskel-Harpaz commended Nigerian youth for their creativity and resilience, describing the initiative as a bridge-building effort between Israel and Nigeria, not just at the government level but among people.

She said, “With today’s announcement of additional funding from the Tech Fund—amounting to several million more invested into this initiative—we’re excited to open the programme to 40 startups, doubling our previous capacity. These startups can now apply for a new round of support and internships.

“I warmly invite Nigeria’s brilliant and creative minds to seize this opportunity. With space for 40 startups instead of 20, more of the country’s top innovators will have the chance to bring their visions to life.

“To learn the skills on how to develop it and how to produce what they want to advance humanity, and to advance your country. I think that this is part of what we are talking about. The relationship, the government to government, people to people.”

The deputy minister emphasised the broader goal of building stronger connections between nations through shared innovation and collaboration.

The upcoming fourth cohort marks an increase from previous recruitment rounds, each of which selected 20 startups. This phase is being supported by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund and the Ministry of Communications.

As part of its expansion plans, Haskel-Harpaz also confirmed that discussions are underway to establish a new Innovate8 hub in Lagos.

She described the move as part of ongoing negotiations with the Minister of Communications and Innovate8 to broaden the reach of the initiative across Nigeria.

She said the success of the programme so far shows great potential in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, recycling, building, and fashion, adding that the sky is the limit for innovation in Nigeria.