Lagos Innovates has onboarded 23 innovators to commence the 10th edition of its Idea Hub program. The 8-week incubation program began with the orientation ceremony held on Thursday, 19th September, at Yaba, Lagos. These startups were chosen from a pool of 103 applicants.
During the hybrid event, some mentors shared insights with the participants to prepare them for the upcoming sessions.
The program will comprise physical and virtual sessions for more inclusive participation and networking and foster collaborations that can birth more transformative, sustainable, and innovative solutions in Lagos state and the world.
Read also: Lagos Innovates launches incubation boot camp, onboarding 23 innovators
With relevant skills, networking opportunities, mentorship, and expert masterclass sessions from seasoned industry experts, its 8-week Idea Hub Program supports early-stage tech-enabled ventures to develop a minimum viable product to create a competitive and long-lasting brand.
Lagos Innovates is an initiative of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) that offers a collection of programs designed to support technology—and innovation-driven startups in Lagos State.
It provides a selection of tech-focused programs designed for individuals and entrepreneurs who want to use technology to benefit society. The LSETF has taken a bold and deliberate step to foster innovation, fortify the talent and finance pipeline for tech startups, and facilitate the development of Lagos State’s ecosystem.
What to anticipate at the Lagos Innovates Idea Hub program
The program seeks to facilitate the expansion and prosperity of the ecosystem by giving tech enthusiasts, creators, and businesses the resources and assistance they require to succeed. Lagos Innovates aims to establish Lagos as a critical startup location and represents the community’s overall objective.
The Idea Hub program, which runs from September 19 to November 6, 2024, will include eight masterclasses where participants will learn about various subjects.
There will be mentorship sessions where participants can meet with their assigned mentors for one hour each week. The sessions will also include a “journey series” where participants can have private meetings with well-known founders to gain insight into their entrepreneurial journeys and a pre-pitch session to identify the top five to ten startups that will pitch on Pitch Day.
Alumni testimonials
Participants of previous cohorts shared their experiences during the orientation, highlighting its impact on their businesses.
“I have had an excellent time learning from top industry experts’ knowledge and wealth of experience. The classes were interactive and well-organised. I look forward to growing my business and being an exemplary entrepreneur to aspiring entrepreneurs”, said Michael Sunmoni, founder of Health Impulse Technologies.
Read also: Apply for Lagos Innovates free Workspace Voucher to boost your tech startup journey
Another beneficiary, Isioma Abojei-Onuoma, founder of Accel Skills Hub, said, “The Idea Hub sessions were very insightful and educational. Due to these sessions, I returned to the drawing board, reevaluating and restructuring my goals and business model to ensure effective and efficient business optimisation.”
“The masterclasses were wonderful and insightful. I was also paired with a good mentor with whom I had a good session. I had deliverables set by him for me, and I always couldn’t wait for further brainstorming calls with him. My experience is fantastic.” affirmed Eniola Oladipo, Pitcherd People.
Since 2018, Lagos Innovates has helped 215 businesses, and those startups have successfully raised funds both domestically and internationally.