The Solution Innovation District (SID), by the Government of Anambra State, Nigeria, and Dhahran Techno Valley Holding Company (DTVC), a leading science and technology hub based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have formed a strategic partnership to create an Africa–Middle East innovation bridge, aimed at accelerating startups, technology commercialisation, and cross-regional collaboration.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during a high-level innovation engagement in Beijing. It establishes a framework for joint accelerator programmes, co-investment in promising startups, knowledge exchange, and industry networking across both regions.
Under the MoU, SID and DTVC will collaborate across several key areas to strengthen innovation and startup ecosystems. In the area of startup and venture acceleration, the partnership will support joint accelerator programs and venture-building initiatives, focusing on sectors such as energy, sustainability, and emerging technologies.
The agreement also emphasises co-investment and business development, with both parties working to develop frameworks for investing in high-potential startups and transformative technologies.
Knowledge sharing and industry engagement will form another pillar of the collaboration, enabling the exchange of expertise, best practices, and insights to drive research, development, and commercialisation.
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The MoU further highlights the creation of networking and collaboration platforms, designed to connect startups, investors, researchers, and industry leaders, fostering partnerships across borders.
The partnership will include co-hosting international events such as summits, workshops, and business-to-business meetings, providing opportunities for knowledge exchange and strengthening global innovation linkages.
Chinwe Okoli, chief executive officer of SID and special adviser to the governor of Anambra state on Innovation and Business Incubation, emphasised the significance of the partnership.
“This collaboration represents a major milestone for Anambra State and Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. Our partnership with DTVC reflects SID’s commitment to building strong international linkages that accelerate technology development, commercialisation, and sustainable growth. By working with DTVC, we are opening new doors for startups, researchers, and industry players to co-create solutions that address global challenges while driving inclusive economic growth. Together, we will empower innovators and entrepreneurs to scale solutions with global impact,” Okoli added.
On his part, Mohammed Abusharifah, chief executive officer of DTVC, noted the alignment with DTVC’s mission to advance global technology partnerships.
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“DTVC reaffirms its commitment to accelerate the journey of ideas from lab to market by bridging world-class research with entrepreneurial spirit. Our partnership with SID will create a bridge for an increase in the flow of talent, expertise, and investments between our two innovation hubs,” Abusharifah stated.
This MoU underscores the shared vision of both parties to foster innovation ecosystems that not only benefit their local communities but also contribute to global knowledge exchange and economic advancement.
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