NITDA and NACCIMA Partner to Connect Nigerian Startups with Investors and Corporate Buyers

Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has partnered with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to help technology startups secure investment, corporate customers and commercial contracts.

The partnership was announced on 19 October 2026 following the signing of a memorandum of understanding and the formation of a joint technical working group. It will use NACCIMA’s network of more than 120 chambers and its links with industrial businesses to connect technology companies with private-sector demand.

Corporate Deals and Investment Opportunities

Under the agreement, NACCIMA will help NITDA-supported startups access investors and businesses that can purchase their products and services. The association will also facilitate commercial partnerships, giving startups opportunities to turn technology solutions into revenue-generating businesses.

The partners will initially focus on manufacturing, agribusiness, logistics and services, where digital tools can improve operational efficiency, productivity and market access.

One of the first areas of cooperation will be the Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition (DNICE 2026), scheduled for Abuja from 10 to 12 November. NACCIMA will organize business-to-business deal rooms, engage corporate investors and venture capital firms, and participate in panels evaluating startups.

The activities are intended to give startups direct access to potential buyers and investors during the event.

AI Programme Targets 10,000 Businesses

The agreement also includes a programme to help 10,000 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) adopt artificial intelligence and other digital technologies.

The initiative will cover businesses across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Participating enterprises are expected to receive practical AI tools, digital skills training, financial readiness support and opportunities to access new markets.

The programme could also create demand for Nigerian technology companies providing software, automation and digital business services. For smaller firms, access to these tools could help improve business processes and competitiveness.

Digital Trust and Data Protection

NITDA and NACCIMA also plan to introduce a digital trust mark platform to verify businesses and encourage compliance with data protection and cybersecurity requirements.

The initiative will support awareness and implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which establishes requirements for handling personal information. Stronger verification and compliance processes could help businesses build confidence when dealing with customers and commercial partners.

The partners also expect the platform to support companies involved in regional trade, including businesses seeking opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Nigeria Startup Act Implementation

The partnership comes as NITDA continues efforts to implement the Nigeria Startup Act, signed into law on 19 October 2022. The legislation provides a framework for supporting eligible startups through measures intended to improve access to funding, incentives and government support.

In August 2026, NITDA called for greater coordination among 15 ministries, departments and agencies to advance implementation of the Act’s provisions.

The NITDA–NACCIMA agreement adds a commercial component to these efforts by using an established private-sector network to connect technology companies with investors and customers.