Qatar Science & Technology Park has announced that cycle 13 of its XLR8 program is now open for applications from September 7 to October 8, with the program itself launching in January 2023.
This year, the winning team will be awarded QR 150k, with QR 100k granted to those in second place, for the entrepreneurs to use in continuing the development of their businesses. The teams will also be provided a workspace in Qatar Science and Technology Park’s (QSTP) Innovation Hub, as well as ongoing mentoring as they proceed with commercializing their innovative products or services.
XLR8 is a 5-month program that helps promising innovators and entrepreneurs determine if their tech-based ideas have commercial viability by giving entrepreneurs the tools needed to assess market fit, customer traction, and investor awareness.
“At QSTP, we have a longstanding commitment to nurturing local innovators throughout their journey to transform tech-based ideas into commercially viable businesses,” said Hayfa Al-Abdulla, Innovation Director, QSTP.
“As a result of the funding and support we provide to entrepreneurs to help their businesses grow, we are able to strengthen Qatar’s private sector and promote the development of cutting-edge products and services that address national and global market needs. I invite Qatar’s most innovative entrepreneurs to apply for this year’s program, which promises to be our most dynamic and rewarding cycle yet.”
Qatar-based teams of up to five members are eligible for the program. Successful applicants will be working on impactful solutions to real-life industry problems through technology and innovation. Throughout the program, teams will have access to world-class working spaces, mentoring and networking opportunities with other successful entrepreneurs.
Through its flagship accelerator program, QSTP, a member of Qatar Foundation, equips ambitious entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and mentorship to transform their tech-based ideas into validated prototypes. It has inspired hundreds of local innovators to pursue their ambitions and develop their skills by helping them to refine their business models and launch a go-to-market strategy.
XLR8 was created seven years ago, and since then, 30 startups have been launched via the program, with more than 170 teams and around 430 individuals participating. Having secured further investment, a number of XLR8 graduated startups such as Stellic, WakeCap and EasyBroadcast are now expanding internationally.
For more details about the XLR8 program and to apply for this year’s cycle, please visit https://qstp.org.qa/xlr8/