The Kano State Government says it will host the maiden edition of the Kano Startup Weekend (KSW) 2025, aimed at igniting innovation and empowering entrepreneurs across the state.
This is contained in a statement by the Director-General of the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA), Dr. Bashir Abdu Muzakkari, on Thursday in Kano.
He said the two-day event would hold on Dec. 13 and 14 at the Coronation Hall, Government House, under the patronage of Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Muzakkari said the programme, organised by KASITDA, formed part of the state’s Digital Transformation Agenda (2025–2030) to address challenges faced by startups, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and modern business tools.
With the theme, “Igniting Innovation, Empowering Entrepreneurs,” the event is expected to attract more than 1,000 participants including startup founders, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders.
According to him, discussions will focus on the state’s priority HEAT sectors of Health, Education, Agriculture, and Transportation.
He said highlights of the weekend include a pitch competition where 20 startups will battle for seed funding and investment opportunities, expert-led sessions on business scaling and finance, an innovation exhibition, and networking sessions linking investors with local talent.
“The Kano Startup Weekend is more than an event; it is a critical launchpad for the next generation of Kanawa entrepreneurs.
“It directly reflects His Excellency’s vision to build a knowledge-based economy and positions Kano as the leading hub for innovation in Northern Nigeria,” he said.
Muzakkari said the state government had invited startups, developers, investors, and corporate partners to participate, adding that the weekend would provide a platform to support the growth of Kano’s tech ecosystem.