The Nigeria Innovation Cluster Exchange (NICE) has initiated applications for its Pipeline Clinics, targeting Nigerian entrepreneurs and businesses in six key innovation clusters. This sector-focused capacity-building program is a collaborative effort between The Nest Innovation Technology Park, the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI). The clusters identified for this initiative are Kano for agro-processing, Abia and Ogun for manufacturing, Oyo for health, Akwa Ibom for minerals, and Abuja for cybersecurity.
The Pipeline Clinics are designed to strengthen businesses and innovators operating within or supporting these sectors. Unlike generic entrepreneurship training, the program will focus on the specific needs of each cluster. Participants will receive support in areas such as innovation management, access to facilities and partners, prototyping, partnerships, and peer exchange. This initiative aims to equip entrepreneurs and businesses with practical tools, networks, and support to enhance their competitiveness and address local challenges.
The program features Experts-in-Residence (EIRs) from the United Kingdom, who will provide specialized knowledge and support in innovation strategy, incubation models, and technology validation. Additionally, Nigerian ecosystem leaders will participate in reciprocal learning opportunities with UK innovation clusters. The initiative is funded by the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, an initiative of the Digital Access Programme (DAP) under the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
According to Oluwajoba Oloba, Co-founder of The Nest Innovation Technology Park, the NICE initiative is a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria's organic innovation ecosystem. The program leverages collaboration between the Government of Nigeria and the UK Government, reflecting the potential of knowledge sharing and partnership with institutions. The goal is to support entrepreneurs and businesses in unlocking Nigeria's economic potential.
The Pipeline Clinics are open to Nigerian-owned or Nigeria-based businesses and enterprises with an existing business, startup, prototype, product, service, or clearly defined business model. Applicants must operate within, support, or demonstrate strong relevance to one of the six identified clusters. The program will help participants address identified challenges and position themselves for sustainable growth.
The NICE initiative follows an initial desk and field research that mapped innovation activities, stakeholders, and opportunities across the six priority clusters. By focusing on specific sector needs, the Pipeline Clinics aim to provide targeted support for businesses and innovators. This approach is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian entrepreneurs and businesses in the global market.
The Nigeria Innovation Cluster Exchange (NICE) Pipeline Clinics represent a significant investment in Nigeria's innovation ecosystem. By providing practical tools, networks, and support, the program aims to unlock the country's economic potential. Interested applicants can now submit their applications to participate in this sector-focused capacity-building program.
Key points
- The Pipeline Clinics will cover areas including innovation management, access to facilities and partners, prototyping, partnerships, and peer exchange.
- The program features Experts-in-Residence (EIRs) from the United Kingdom, who will provide specialized knowledge and support.
- The initiative is funded by the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, an initiative of the Digital Access Programme (DAP) under the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
