The initiative aims to entice both new and expanding tech startups to establish their presence in Qatar, offering a comprehensive support package to fuel their growth. This includes access to vital capital, personalized business mentorship, and strategic industry partnerships. Startups can secure financial assistance ranging from $500,000 for budding ventures to an impressive $5 million for established businesses planning expansion within the country. The program spans across diverse sectors, aiming to empower startups to innovate, thrive, and make a mark in their respective industries. Regular networking events, workshops, and seminars are slated to promote collaboration and facilitate funding opportunities.
Abdulrahman Hesham Al Sowaidi, CEO of QDB, envisions Qatar as a major hub for technological startups, advocating for widespread adoption of technology across various sectors. Al Sowaidi's vision extends globally, seeking partnerships with leading educational institutions and businesses to foster a technologically integrated ecosystem that benefits local communities.
Inspired by successful venture models in the US, Qatar's initiative mandates foreign startups to establish a local presence to qualify for funding. This requirement underscores Qatar's commitment to nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem domestically, a move that Al Sowaidi believes will drive economic sustainability and diversity.
The program signals Qatar's ambition to ramp up venture capital activities, which accounted for a mere 6% of transactions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in 2023. A surge in venture capital activities could bode well for the entire MENA region, which witnessed approximately 55% participation from local investors in startup funding last year.
In summary, the launch of the Startup Qatar Investment Program heralds a transformative era for Qatar's economic landscape, positioning the country as a magnet for global entrepreneurs and a formidable force in the global investment arena.
One of Sponix Tech's standout offerings is its “SPboard technology”. When for example a game of football is live on television, each region sees its local ads being played on the screens that are at the stadium’s venue. As an example, this means that advertisers in Qatar or Australia are able to display their ads on live screens at a football game being played in Portugal, and each country’s audience would only be able to see their locally tailored ads during the live game. The technology is essentially the integration of virtual advertisements into live broadcasts. This innovative software-driven solution eliminates the need for hardware installation at venues, making it incredibly cost-effective and environmentally friendly. With the capability to generate Point-of-View videos for games hosted in stadiums worldwide, Sponix Tech is setting new standards for sports advertising and fan engagement.
In 2023, Sponix Tech made significant strides in the market, securing partnerships with over 60 business partners and covering more than 400 matches. The company's dedication to excellence and innovation earned it recognition from esteemed right holders, broadcasters, and leagues, solidifying its reputation as a top player in the industry.
Just 2 months into 2024, Sponix Tech witnessed the potential of its disruption, surpassing its previous year's achievements in deal closures. During an exclusive interview with Innovation Cafe discussing this remarkable growth, Ali Reza, Marketing Director of Sponix Tech cited three key factors driving their success:
Today, Sponix Tech stands proudly among the top three technology providers in the world, offering high-end solutions that are redefining sports broadcasting. With a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and client satisfaction, they continue to lead the way in revolutionizing the industry.
Founded on the principles of leveraging video technology to enhance viewer experience and increase brand visibility, Sponix Tech has quickly risen to prominence in the sports technology sector, their team of experts are dedicated to harnessing the power of AI, machine learning, and computer vision, allowing them to reshape the landscape of sports broadcasting.
The success story of CWallet comes with the collaborative efforts of its visionary founders, along with the support from esteemed Qatari angel investors and strategic backing from Malaysia. Notably, MBK Holdings provided a substantial cash capital injection, propelling CWallet towards unprecedented growth.
CWallet has secured a total funding of $3 million, with contributions from industry giants like VISA, supported by entities such as QSTP PDF, Ten Angels, and local Qatari angel investors. As an alumna of programs like SeedStars, VillageCapital, with backing from Qatar Fintech Hub and Qatar Development Bank, CWallet is a reflection of the collaborative support driving Qatar's startup ecosystem towards success.
Established as a payment service provider licensed by the Qatar Central Bank and headquartered in Doha with a presence in Dubai DMCC, CWallet is set for regional expansion. Future ventures include entry into the growing Saudi market, accreditation by Fintech Saudi/SAMA, and operational bases in India, Nepal, and Southeast Asia, beginning with the Republic of the Philippines.
CWallet's global recognition is noteworthy, having presented at the United Nations HQ in New York and participated in the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos, Switzerland, representing Qatar at an international stage.
Recent accolades, including the Fintech of the Year award from Qatar University and the Most Innovative Fintech award from the Ministry of Communications and IT (MCIT), further validate CWallet's commitment to excellence.
A portion of the investment has been earmarked for product development, with the highly anticipated release of "CWallet X" scheduled for March 2024.
With a mission to become Qatar's first licensed Digital (Neo Bank), CWallet is determined to further revolutionize the fintech landscape, demonstrating Qatar's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship on a global scale.
Diesel engine emissions have long been recognized as a major contributor to air pollution, with smoke emissions posing serious health risks such as cancer and asthma. Traditional methods of reducing smoke emissions rely on exhaust gas filters, which are effective at capturing larger carbon particles but often fall short in addressing smaller ones, known as soot.
Dr.Ahmed's groundbreaking invention of the smokeless exhaust tube has led to the establishment of ClearExhaust LLC, a startup aimed at commercializing this transformative technology. Through partnerships and collaborations, ClearExhaust LLC is set to bring cleaner air to communities worldwide, aligning with Qatar University's commitment to addressing the needs of Qatar and beyond.
This innovative technology creates a water-type filter within the vehicle's exhaust system, capable of capturing carbon particles of all sizes without interfering with engine operation. The result? A complete elimination—100%—of smoke emissions from diesel engines.
What sets ClearExhaust apart is its simplicity and effectiveness. Unlike existing solutions that only manage to eliminate a fraction of smoke emissions of about 40%, ClearExhaust offers a comprehensive and reliable approach to tackling pollution from diesel engines. The technology's ease of installation ensures that it can be readily adopted across a wide range of diesel-powered vehicles, from trucks and buses to stationary engines.
ClearExhaust's technology also demonstrates remarkable effectiveness in reducing other significant greenhouse emissions by approximately 20-30%. This includes pollutants like NOx, CO, and HC, further enhancing its contribution to environmental protection.
Dr. Samer Ahmed's journey in research and innovation has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cambridge and a tenure at Qatar University since 2011, Dr.Ahmed has garnered support from both governmental and industrial sectors, enabling the establishment of a state-of-the-art Heat Engines and Combustion Lab at QU.
Recognized for his excellence in academia, research, and innovation, he has received prestigious awards from institutions such as Qatar University, Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). His prolific publication record, comprising around 70 papers in top journals and conferences, underscores his significant contributions to the field.
The significance of ClearExhaust extends beyond its technical achievements—it represents hope for a cleaner, healthier future. With its potential to revolutionize the transportation and industrial sectors, ClearExhaust stands as a power of innovation in mitigating the environmental challenges of our time.
As we look ahead, the vision for ClearExhaust is clear: to see it installed on all diesel engines, both mobile and stationary, paving the way for a smoke-free atmosphere and a greener planet for generations to come.
Qatari women, especially those aged 25 to 34, are at the forefront of this transformation. Armed with education and ambition, they are carving out their creativity in diverse sectors, from fashion and technology to the dynamic realm of startups. The desire for financial independence and a passion for innovation, these female entrepreneurs are not just following trends; they are setting them, challenging the status quo every step of the way.
In February 2024, this wave of female entrepreneurship was celebrated as Dr. Kholoud Mohammed Abdulla, the founder of GeneDose, was honored with the prestigious Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 award at the Qatar Entrepreneur Awards. GeneDose, a pioneering Qatari startup, recently emerged victorious at the renowned Rowad Healthcare Hackathon, underscoring the groundbreaking work and disruptive influence of Qatari women in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
At the heart of Qatar's entrepreneurial revolution lies a supportive ecosystem that nurtures and empowers women-led ventures. From influential figures like Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Sheikha Hind bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, to various government initiatives and business organizations, the support for female entrepreneurship is substantial.
As Qatar's economy diversifies and expands, the role of female entrepreneurs becomes increasingly pivotal. By harnessing their talents and creativity, Qatar can unlock untapped potential across all sectors. With unwavering support from government, businesses, and the community, the future is bright for female entrepreneurship in Qatar, promising a more inclusive, vibrant, and prosperous society for all.
Qatar's female entrepreneurs are not just making waves; they are leading a revolution. Their passion, perseverance, and pioneering spirit are not only reshaping the business landscape but also inspiring generations to come. As they continue to break barriers and blaze new trails, Qatar stands poised to become a global beacon for female-led innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event's significance is underscored by the sold-out tickets and the staggering number of attendees, with over 18,000 individuals from diverse backgrounds converging in Doha to participate in this experience. Amidst this diverse gathering, more than 200 startups from Africa, an addition of talent and potential to the summit, while the notable presence of 328 startups led by women highlights the growing influence and contributions of female entrepreneurs in the tech sector.
Amidst the atmosphere of innovation, Web Summit Qatar received a distinguished guest, his Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, whose keynote speech resonated with warmth and inspiration. Extending a gracious welcome to startups from across the globe, Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar's unwavering dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. He spotlighted Qatar's substantial investments in infrastructure and technology, including a monumental $1 billion investment and the establishment of the nation's first venture capital fund dedicated to supporting SMEs and startups.
Noteworthy is the strong presence of Qatari startups, at least 96 local startups from Qatar will be showcasing their innovations, highlighting the country's growing reputation as a hub of technological innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
As anticipation builds for the networking opportunities at Web Summit Qatar, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts are gearing up to explore new collaborations and opportunities. With a 400 lineup of speakers and interactive sessions, the event promises to be a hub for meaningful connections and knowledge-sharing.
Investors from leading global funds, including Peak XV and Global Ventures, are eagerly awaiting the event, recognizing the immense potential of the Middle East's tech landscape. With 500 investors in attendance, Web Summit Qatar presents unprecedented opportunities for startups to secure funding and scale their ventures.
As the summit unfolds, attendees can anticipate dynamic exchanges of ideas, fruitful collaborations, and groundbreaking advancements in the tech landscape. With sold-out tickets and a record-breaking number of attendees, Web Summit Qatar is positioned to be a catalyst for transformative change, solidifying the region's reputation as a leading hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurship worldwide.
Michael Javier, co-founder of CWallet, accepts the FinTech Startup of the Year award.
“We are proud to be an award-winning startup born in Qatar, raised in the Middle East, and ready to conquer beyond technology and territories." said Michael Javier during an interview with Innovation Cafe. The journey of CWallet has been marked by substantial investments from prominent backers, including Microsoft, Visa, and a pool of local angel investors. These investments, totaling millions of dollars, have provided CWallet with the necessary resources to pursue its mission of democratizing banking and promoting financial inclusion. With a focus on providing user-centric solutions, CWallet aims to bridge the gap between traditional banking services and modern digital solutions, empowering individuals and businesses alike to navigate the financial landscape with ease.
At the core of CWallet's vision is a commitment to promote financial literacy and inclusivity. By offering simple yet powerful financial services, they aim to empower individuals from all walks of life to take control of their finances and achieve their goals. Through strategic partnerships and innovative technologies, CWallet seeks to make banking more accessible and convenient for its users, regardless of their financial background or technological proficiency.
In addition to its focus on customer empowerment, CWallet is also dedicated to driving positive social and environmental impact. Much of their resources are allocated to strengthen its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, aligning its operations with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. By integrating sustainability into its business practices, CWallet aims to create value not only for its shareholders but also for society as a whole.
Looking ahead, CWallet is preparing to launch its latest offering, "CWALLET X," an enterprise solution designed to cater to the needs of businesses of all sizes. This new platform will enable businesses to streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experiences. With sheer focus on serving micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), CWallet aims to support the growth and success of local businesses while contributing to the overall economic development of the region.
"We were born to win, but to be a winner you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win," said Michael Javier, co-founder of CWallet, quoting Zig Ziglar. "This recognition only reaffirms our commitment to supporting Qatar's vision of a smart and cashless city.
As CWallet continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains committed to its mission of driving positive change in the financial sector. With a dedicated team of professionals and a clear vision for the future, CWallet is well-positioned to shape the future of banking in Qatar and beyond.
Discover the future of banking with CWallet or join as an investor. Download the app at Download App or for investment inquiries, reach out to CWallet at support@cwallet.qa
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During an exclusive interview with Innovation Café, Bashar Hudhud remarked, “To us, Classtap is way more than just a fitness app; it's a universe that helps people dive into a healthier way of living. It's all about sparking that initial inspiration, showing you new, exciting fitness and wellness experiences, and then connecting you to them. We're really here to look after both your physical shape and your mental peace because let's face it, being truly healthy and happy starts with taking care of our minds just as much as our bodies.”
Currently, Classtap is in the middle of raising its seed round to prepare itself for scaling into other markets. This fundraising effort emphasizes the founders’ commitment to innovation and its vision for a global fitness community. By securing the necessary capital, The startup plans to expand its offerings, enhance its technology, and reach more users, not only within Qatar but across the region. This will enable them to continue its mission of making fitness accessible for everyone, everywhere.
To conclude, as Classtap embarks on its seed fundraising round, it mirrors the successful business strategies seen in other sectors. The ambition is to disrupt not just Qatar's fitness industry but to establish a global footprint. With the right mix of technology, partnerships, and customer-centric services, the startup is taking charge of making fitness more accessible and enjoyable, marking a new era in the pursuit of health and wellness.
As the new year unfolds, KARTY, a visionary fintech startup based in Qatar, has swiftly emerged as a subject of widespread attention following its impressive early success. Securing more than $2 million in a seed funding round, an amount which translates to over 7.3 million Qatari Riyals, KARTY has not just positioned itself as a leader in financial innovation but also underscored a significant leap towards reshaping the financial landscape of Qatar. Announced on January 22, 2024, this funding achievement is not merely a milestone for KARTY; it signals a transformative shift in Qatar's fintech industry, reflecting the ambitious vision of the startup and the strong confidence its investors have in its future.
Reflecting on this milestone, Mohammed Souliman co-founder and CEO of KARTY, shared, "This funding is a testament to the hard work of our team and the innovative spirit that drives us. We are committed to leveraging this investment to revolutionize the way financial services are delivered in Qatar, making them more accessible, efficient, and secure for everyone."
From its early days, KARTY's trajectory has mirrored the vibrant evolution of Qatar's fintech ecosystem. Situated in Doha and in strategic partnership with Masraf Al Rayan, KARTY has adeptly navigated the financial sector's complexities. This journey towards the launch of KARTY's services is on the cusp of realization, pending the final nod from the Qatar Central Bank. This crucial phase, marked by in-principle approval for development, sets the stage for KARTY's anticipated impact on Qatar's financial services industry.
Abdulazi Al Marri , another visionary behind KARTY, added, "Our journey has just begun. With the support of our investors and partners, we're on the path to creating a fintech ecosystem in Qatar that will serve as a model for the region. Our mission is to bridge the gap between traditional banking and the digital economy, ensuring that Qatar remains at the forefront of financial innovation."
The diversity of investors participating in this funding round highlights the appeal of KARTY's vision and its potential to meet the digital economy's demands in Qatar and byond. This investment not only signifies the trust placed in KARTY's disruptive capabilities but also reflects the broader trend of growing support for fintech startups in the region, propelled by a conducive regulatory environment and an innovative mindset.
This significant funding milestone underscores the strategic role of fintech innovations in driving Qatar's economic growth and digital inclusivity. It heralds a promising outlook for aspiring fintech ventures in Qatar and the Middle East, emphasizing the region's fertile ground for technological entrepreneurship and the pivotal role of innovative financial services in shaping the economy's future.
KARTY's achievement also highlights the maturing landscape of Qatar's startup ecosystem, showcasing the readiness of investors to support ideas that promise to redefine industry norms. Last year KARTY announce a strategic partnership with Masraf Al Rayan the partnership will strengthen the cooperation in the financial technological development areas such KARTY App.
Moreover, KARTY exemplifies the global financial sector's strategic shift towards technology-led startups that aim to introduce efficiencies, enhance customer experiences, and democratize financial services access.
As KARTY gears up for its official launch, it is poised to introduce novel financial products and services tailored to the evolving needs of Qatar's digitally savvy population. This venture not only marks a significant development phase for KARTY but also signifies a bright future for fintech innovation in Qatar.
Thus, as KARTY prepares for its market debut, the fintech industry awaits the transformative impact it promises to deliver, potentially setting new standards for Qatar's economic and digital infrastructure.
In a landmark move for the fintech industry in Qatar, Skipcash, a leader in digital payment solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Premier Fintech LLC, the Middle East's first Smart POS manufacturer. This collaboration is set to support the landscape of digital transactions in the region, marking innovative technological advancement and security in financial exchanges more possible.
Through this partnership, Skipcash will provide a full suite of its cutting-edge digital payment solutions to be integrated with Premier Fintech LLC's services. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the way transactions are conducted in Qatar, focusing on safety, speed, and security, catering to the evolving needs of the modern consumer.
The official signing ceremony was a significant event, attended by notable figures from both companies. Mohammed Al-Delaimi, the founder and CEO of Skipcash, along with Mr. Intiqab Rawoof, founder and CEO of Premier Fintech LLC marked the commencement of this promising partnership. The presence of these key players underscored the importance of this alliance in the fintech space.
In an exclusive conversation with Innovation Cafe, Mohammed Al Delaimi stated
“Our goal is to improve the digital transaction landscape one product at a time, one partnership at a time."
With Premier Fintech LLC, we believe in the power of technology to create solutions that are not only innovative but also secure and user-friendly when it comes out to checkouts experiences.
This partnership symbolizes our commitment to supporting fellow entrepreneurs and digitalization in Qatar.”
This partnership between Skipcash and Premier Fintech LLC is not just a business venture; it's a commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of digital transactions. It signals a move towards more sophisticated and secure financial technologies in Qatar, setting new and higher standards for the industry at large.
For those interested in the rapidly evolving world of fintech, this collaboration between Skipcash and Premier Fintech LLC is a development to watch. It reflects the dynamic nature of the industry and the potential for technology to reshape our financial experiences.
Keep an eye on our platform for more insights and updates from the heart of the fintech revolution.
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Stay Informed with Innovation Café: For those keen on staying at the forefront of startup success stories and breakthroughs in the innovation ecosystem, look no further than Innovation Café. Our dedicated platform brings you the latest and most inspiring news from the world of startups and innovation. Keep an eye on Innovation Café for regular updates and insights that keep you connected with the ever-evolving landscape of creativity and enterprise. Join us in celebrating the spirit of innovation that is reshaping our world.
]]>In a significant milestone for the innovation landscape in Qatar, Ibtechar, a leading innovation and technology solutions company, has recently been recognized as an authorized provider by the Global Innovation Institute (GInI). This esteemed status as a Certified Training and Assessment Provider (ATAP)®️ reflects Ibtechar's commitment to developing a culture of innovation and excellence in the region.
The Global Innovation Institute, known for setting benchmarks in innovation and creative thinking, endorses organizations that meet their rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness. The authorization allows Ibtechar to offer specialized training and assessment services, guided by the GInI's comprehensive framework. This development is poised to have a substantial impact on the professional growth of individuals and the strategic evolution of organizations in Qatar.
"This recognition is not only a reflection of our team's dedication and expertise but also a significant step towards empowering our clients. We anticipate that this authorization will pave the way for further advancements and breakthroughs in the field of technology and innovation.” He further added “By integrating GInI's acclaimed framework into our services, we are positioned to create a culture of innovation excellence and offer tailored assessments that drive innovation forward.”
Ibtechar's new role as an ATAP®️ in Qatar is expected to create a wave of opportunities for professionals and organizations seeking to excel in innovation. The company's plans include a range of training programs and assessment services, designed to meet the diverse needs of its clients. With this initiative, Ibtechar is set to play a pivotal role in shaping a future where innovation and creativity are the cornerstones of success.
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For those keen on staying at the forefront of startup success stories and breakthroughs in the innovation ecosystem in Qatar, look no further than Innovation Café. Our dedicated platform brings you the latest and most inspiring news as well as stories from the world of startups and innovation in the region. Keep an eye on Innovation Café for regular updates and insights that keep you connected with the ever-evolving landscape of creativity and enterprise. Join us in celebrating the spirit of innovation that is reshaping our world.
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