This archive report was first published on 14 August 2019.
On August 14, 2019, Nigeria's Inlaks, a 1982-established systems integrator, launched 'thehatch', a fintech-focused innovation lab to build and scale fintech startups in Nigeria.
The lab aims to provide local startups with a level playing field through programs designed to identify, nurture, and scale great innovations that have the potential to transform the financial service sector in Nigeria and globally.
According to Inlaks, thehatch will provide startups with an opportunity to learn from their peers and mentors, scale, and grow, ultimately changing lives in the bigger society.
Olufemi Muraino, the Executive Director (Innovation and Business Transformation) at Inlaks, stated, “I am elated at the launch of our Tech Hub as we are focused on opening up new markets while also introducing innovative information technology products into the Sub-Saharan African markets”.
The launch comes after AfriLabs, the pan-African network of technology and innovation hubs, announced it had added 27 new hubs into her network, extending her reach into 6 countries.
Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director, AfriLabs, said, “We are excited to have these new members join our ever-growing family as well as extending our reach to these new countries thereby bringing us closer to the goal of having our community span across all 55 African countries”.
Though Inlaks thehatch is yet to become a member of AfriLabs, there is a high possibility that it will take that opportunity to expand its network beyond Nigeria and across the continent.
Femi Adeoti, MD Africa Operations, Inlaks, stated, “With thehatch, Inlaks is ready to be an anchor for worthy home-based (African) solutions to give them global relevance. We call on young techpreneurs to take a giant step towards making a huge impact on the global tech evolution trend”.
