Kano is set to host its first-ever Startup Weekend, a landmark event to be held December 13-14, 2025, at Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano. Organized by the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA), Kano Startup Weekend (KSW) 2025 is a flagship component of the state’s Digital Transformation Agenda (2025-2030), aimed at positioning Kano as a leading innovation hub in Northern Nigeria.
What to Expect
Under the theme “Igniting Innovation, Empowering Entrepreneurs”, KSW 2025 promises to be more than an event—it’s a launchpad. The organizers expect over 1,000 participants including startup founders, tech innovators, investors, policymakers, and business leaders.
Focus will be on Kano’s HEAT sectors:
- Health
- Education
- Agriculture
- Transportation
Here are some of the event’s main features:
- A pitch competition where 20 pre-selected startups will present to a panel of investors for seed funding, prizes, and strategic partnerships.
- Expert-led sessions and panel discussions covering scaling business, securing funding, and emerging technologies.
- An Innovation Exhibition, showcasing startup products, services, and partner contributions.
- Structured networking opportunities aimed at connecting mentors, investors, corporate partners, and entrepreneurs.
Why It Matters
Dr. Bashir Abdu Muzakkari, Director-General of KASITDA, describes the initiative as “more than an event; it is a critical launchpad for the next generation of Kanawa entrepreneurs.” He stresses that KSW aligns directly with His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision for a knowledge-based economy.
By providing access to mentorship, funding, tools, and platforms for collaboration, KSW 2025 aims to address systemic hurdles for startups: lack of funding, mentorship gaps, limited access to modern business tools, and insufficient exposure.
Call to Action
Are you a startup founder, investor, technologist, mentor, or friend of innovation? The Kano Startup Weekend is your moment. Be part of Kano’s entrepreneurial future. Registration, sponsorship, and partnership opportunities are now open.
Let’s come together to ignite innovation, empower entrepreneurs, and build an inclusive, digital future for Kano and Northern Nigeria.
