News Highlights
- The Anambra State–owned Solution Innovation District (SID) and Saudi Arabia’s Dhahran Techno Valley Holding Company (DTVC) signed a MoU to deepen collaboration in research, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization.
- The partnership will promote joint startup accelerator programmes, co-investment in high-potential technologies, knowledge sharing, and international innovation events to connect startups, investors, and researchers from both regions.
The Anambra State, Nigeria-owned Solution Innovation District (SID), and Dhahran Techno Valley Holding Company (DTVC), a leading science and technology hub based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization.
The agreement, signed during a high-level innovation engagement in Beijing, marks the beginning of a strategic partnership designed to accelerate innovation-driven economic growth across Africa and the Middle East.
Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate in key areas, including:
- Startup & Venture Acceleration – joint accelerator programs and venture-building initiatives in sectors such as energy, sustainability, and emerging technologies.
- Co-Investment & Business Development – development of frameworks to co-invest in high-potential startups and transformative technologies.
- Knowledge Sharing & Industry Engagement – exchange of expertise, best practices, and insights to drive R&D and commercialization
- Networking & Collaboration Platforms – creation of opportunities for startups, investors, researchers, and industry leaders to connect.
- Events & Knowledge Exchange – co-hosting international summits, workshops, and B2B meetings to foster global innovation linkages.
Chinwe Okoli, Chief Executive Officer of SID and Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State, on Innovation and Business Incubation, who spoke on behalf of SID, emphasized 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, commercialization, 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.”
Mohammed Abusharifah, Chief Executive Officer of DTVC, on his part, noted the alignment with DTVC’s mission to advance global technology partnerships.
“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.”
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.