Overview
Ready to explore the MENA market with Qatar as your regional base?
First-hand exposure can change everything. The Global Innovation Link brings startups from around the world straight into Qatar’s innovation scene. This program offers an immersive experience for promising tech entrepreneurs from around the world who are eager to expand into MENA. By connecting international innovation with local expertise, GIL fosters global collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange at QSTP while providing startups with the insights and connections needed for successful regional expansion.
Benefits
Exposure to investors, partners, and customers in the local and regional market
Meet startup founders from all over the world
Participate in a top tech conference with global reach
Eligibility Criteria
Core Requirements:
- Geographic Focus: Tech startups and scale-ups seeking to expand into the MENA region
- Qatar Base Interest: Commitment to using Qatar as regional headquarters or expansion base
- Team Readiness: Up to two team members with strong STEM background appointed for participation
- Independence: Must be independent entity, not a subsidiary of larger company
- Experience Level: Meet two of three criteria:
- PhD/Master’s degree with 5+ years relevant experience or IP holder
- Commercially deployed product with demonstrable customer adoption
- Annual revenue of at least USD 100,000
- Strategic Alignment: Technology and business model aligned with regional market opportunities
Structure & Timeline
Duration & Format:
- Program Length: 2 weeks intensive experience
- Structure:
- Week 1: One-to-one sessions with local ecosystem stakeholders and QSTP companies
- Week 2: Linked to major Qatar events (Web Summit, etc.) for global audience exposure
- Format: Intensive, immersive, and networking-focused
- Frequency: Flexible scheduling based on major events and ecosystem opportunities
Program Components:
- Ecosystem immersion: Direct engagement with Qatar’s startup, corporate, and government stakeholders
- Strategic networking: Access to key decision-makers across industry, academia, and investment
- Market validation: Real-time feedback on regional market fit and expansion strategy
- Event participation: Showcase technology to global audiences at high-profile Qatar events
- Partnership development: Structured introductions to potential partners, customers, and investors
Application Process
Step 1: Download and complete QSTP Application Form
Step 2: Submit application to [email protected] with required documentation
Step 3: QSTP review based on eligibility criteria and program objectives
Step 4: Selection notification and participation arrangement details
Step 5: Pre-arrival coordination and program customization
Alternative Path: Nomination by recognized national bodies (science parks, accelerators, government agencies, universities, entrepreneurial support organizations)
Contact
For applications and inquiries about the Global Innovation Link program, please contact [email protected].