Interswitch, an integrated payments and digital commerce company, has reinforced its commitment to Nigeria’s startup ecosystem by sponsoring the inaugural Kano Startup Weekend 2025, themed “Igniting Innovation & Empowering Entrepreneurs,” held in Kano State.

Through mentorship sessions, networking opportunities, and active participation in the startup pitch competition, Interswitch provided founders with practical insights, exposure to developer-friendly platforms, and guidance on building scalable and sustainable digital businesses.

The Kano Startup Weekend 2025 is the flagship entrepreneurship and innovation event organised by the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA). The initiative aligns with the Kano State Digital Transformation Agenda (2025–2030) and aims to stimulate the state’s startup ecosystem, encourage collaboration, and position Kano as a leading hub for technology and innovation in Northern Nigeria.

The event featured pitch presentations from startups operating across sectors such as technology, education, agriculture, mobility, and digital services. These were complemented by expert-led sessions on product development, funding readiness, customer acquisition, and scaling strategies, equipping founders with tools to refine their ideas and grow their ventures.

Speaking at the event, Interswitch’s Chief Information Officer, Patrick Okebu, highlighted the strategic importance of supporting regional innovation ecosystems.

“Kano Startup Weekend reflects the depth of entrepreneurial potential emerging from the North. At Interswitch, we recognise that innovation thrives when founders have access to the right platforms, mentorship, and infrastructure,” Okebu said.

He added that the company’s support for the event aligns with its broader mission to empower startups with payment and digital commerce solutions that enable them to build confidently, scale sustainably, and compete effectively in today’s digital economy.

Beyond mentorship and pitch sessions, the Kano Startup Weekend created avenues for collaboration among the public sector, private organisations, investors, and the startup community, demonstrating how strong partnerships can accelerate innovation and drive inclusive economic growth.

The success of the inaugural event underscored the growing momentum within Kano State’s technology ecosystem and the increasing role of strategic partnerships in nurturing local talent and expanding economic opportunities.

Interswitch noted that initiatives such as the Kano Startup Weekend are critical to strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy and fostering innovation beyond major urban centres. Through its sponsorship and active participation, the company reaffirmed its position as a trusted partner to founders, developers, and innovation enablers across Nigeria and beyond.