In a bold move to position Imo State as a leading innovation hub in Africa, the United States Market Access Centre (USMAC) has partnered with the Imo State Government to launch a global startup development programme targeting 300,000 Nigerian youths.
The initiative, announced at a media parly in Abuja yesterday,is aimed at discovering and incubating the next generation of Nigerian innovators and entrepreneurs.
USMAC, a respected Silicon Valley accelerator, has supported over 5,000 startups from 82 countries to scale globally. Its latest partnership with Imo is described as a major leap in Nigeria’s digital empowerment journey.
Matt Ifesieh, USMAC’s Representative for Nigeria and Africa, said the programme is a direct response to the country’s urgent need for inclusive digital growth.
“In today’s digital age, innovation drives every sphere of our lives,” he said.
“This initiative is designed to empower Nigerian youths with entrepreneurial best practices, access to global mentors, and Silicon Valley venture capital.”
The programme is aligned with Governor Hope Uzodimma’s digital transformation agenda, under the broader Imo Scale Up Programme.
The five-year plan aims to create over 300,000 jobs and support thousands of startup founders.
The collaboration also involves the Imo Digital Centre and global institutions such as UC Berkeley’s Sutardja Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology.
USMAC CEO Dr Chris Burry, speaking virtually, introduced the Founder Dojo concept — a model that builds startup leaders using Silicon Valley’s “player development” system.
“No one is born a founder,” he said. “Founders are made through learning, mentorship, and experience.”
Dr Burry noted that 95% of global unicorn founders had previous startup exposure, a culture the programme intends to cultivate in Nigeria.
He praised the Uzodimma administration for its commitment to digital transformation, citing the Igbo Digital City as a national benchmark for sustainable public-private collaboration.
“So far, the digital city project has trained over 60,000 young people, backed by fibre-optic internet and stable power supply.
“The new programme will begin with pre-launch activities in August. Participation is free for selected applicants.
“Youth entrepreneurs will receive pitch training, mentorship from Silicon Valley experts, and advanced tech education in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity.
“The programme will culminate in a competitive hackathon, offering international exposure and potential funding.”
Also Dr Collins, a USMAC partner, said the goal is not just to create businesses, but to nurture global leaders.
“We are helping young people build themselves, equipping them with the mindset and tools to succeed on the world stage,” he said.
For Imo youths, the message is clear: the future of innovation starts now — and it starts at home.
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