Announcing the launch of the Startup Portal: A major milestone for the Nigeria Startup Act
Written by Abel Edugie
A year, one month, and four days ago, the curtain rose on Nigeria’s groundbreaking Startup Act – a visionary step towards fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. In March 2023, the Implementation Committee for the Nigeria Startup Act was set up. Thereafter, a call for membership to the Startup Consultative Forum was made to interested members of the public. By April 2023, the Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship was inaugurated by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, paving the way for the implementation of the other provisions of the Startup Act.
Today, we stand on the precipice of an even more exciting chapter with the launch of the Startup Support and Engagement Portal, affectionately known as "The Startup Portal.”
In a festive announcement made by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, the Startup Portal signifies a critical component of the Startup Act that promises to elevate its implementation to unprecedented heights.
Why is this launch a cause for celebration? Brace yourselves for the unveiling of this digital wonderland, where the heartbeat of the Startup Act comes to life!
🚀 Fast-Track to Success:
Startups aiming to secure the coveted label under the Startup Act are now welcomed onto the grand stage of the Startup Portal. With a few clicks and keystrokes, dreams transform into reality as applications find their way into the pulse of innovation.
🌐 Global Sandbox Adventures:
Picture this: Labelled startups seeking entry into regulatory sandboxes, including the illustrious Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) programs, enjoy an express lane through the Startup Portal. It’s a fast-track journey to a world of possibilities, all conveniently at their fingertips.
💡 Accelerating Ambitions:
The Startup Act envisions a realm where accelerator and incubator programs thrive. How does this vision materialise? The Startup Portal becomes the compass, guiding startups to information on existing programs and simplifying the intricate steps of registration and admission into these transformative initiatives.
💰 Fintech Fantasia:
For crowdfunding platforms and commodities investment platforms licensed by the SEC, the Startup Portal opens its gates. Startups can now harness the power of these platforms, propelling their ventures to new heights with ease and efficiency.
🎁 Innovation Wonderland:
The Secretariat, in collaboration with relevant agencies, shall create dedicated sections in the Startup Portal to ease technology transfer registration, simplify licensing procedures for fintech startups, and streamline processes for startups engaging with the Corporate Affairs Commission. The Startup Portal is the key to unlocking a treasure trove of opportunities.
🌍 Ecosystem Extravaganza:
In the Federal Government’s resounding announcement, the Startup Portal becomes the epicenter for identifying and uniting the forces of Nigerian startups, venture capital, hubs, and innovation centres. Stakeholders are not just invited; they are urged to explore, register, and bask in the wealth of resources awaiting them on the portal.
👏 Calling All Trailblazers:
As the Secretariat orchestrates monumental strides towards a fully-fledged Startup Act, ecosystem players are summoned to join the festivities. Register on the portal, lend your voice through invaluable feedback, embrace the Act’s provisions, and champion its implementation in your state. Let’s demand accountability, and together, we’ll sculpt an innovation landscape that transcends imagination.
The Startup Portal is not just a platform; it’s a gift to every dreamer, builder, and innovator. Unwrap the future – your journey begins here! 🎉
Thanks for reading. We are always listening to your feedback and suggestions. Keep them coming by sending us an email via hello@startupbill.ng.
