The United States Market Access Centre (USMAC) in collaboration with the Imo State Government, has launched a global startup development programme targeting over 300,000 young Nigerians.
The initiative with the theme, “Discovering and Incubating the Next Generation of Nigerian Innovators and Entrepreneurs” seeks to equip young founders with world-class entrepreneurial skills, access to Silicon Valley mentors, and funding.
Speaking at the pre-launch of the initiative, USMAC’s Representative for Nigeria and Africa, Matt Ifesieh, said the scheme is a direct response to the urgent need for inclusive digital empowerment across the country.
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He said that the initiative aligns with the digital transformation agenda of Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on Imo Scale Up Programme, which aims at creating over 300,000 jobs and supporting thousands of startup founders over the next five years in collaboration with the Imo Digital Centre, UC Berkeley’s Sutardja Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology, and other global partners.
He said, “In today’s digital age, innovation drives every sphere of our lives,” Ifesieh said. “This initiative is designed to empower Nigerian youths with entrepreneurial best practices, cutting-edge business models, and access to global venture capital, especially from Silicon Valley.”
Dr Chris Burry, USMAC CEO and Global Representative, described the programme as a structured pathway to build “superstar founders” through “player development model”.
He noted that over 95% of unicorn startup founders globally had prior experience either founding or working in startups.
He said that the Founder Dojo seeks to replicate the approach in Nigeria.
Dr Burry commended Governor Uzodimma, saying the Imo Digital City is a national model for sustainable public-private partnerships.