The Global Innovation Link – Web Summit Edition application window is now closed.
Please check this page periodically for updates on when the next cohort will start.
1. Program Overview
The program aims to foster global collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange at QSTP, Qatar’s premier hub for innovation.
The key objectives of the program are to:
- Promote international collaboration in science and technology.
- Enhance the entrepreneurial skills of participants.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange between global innovators and Qatari stakeholders.
- Provide participants with exposure to Qatar's innovation ecosystem.
The Global Innovation Link will take place between the 16th and 27th of February 2025.
2. Eligibility Criteria
In order to participate in the program, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- The startup needs to appoint a team of up to two members with a strong STEM background.
- The startup should be an independent entity, not a subsidiary of a larger company.
- In addition, two of the three following criteria must be met:
- One of the founding team members should hold a PhD or master’s degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience or be an Intellectual Property (IP) holder.
- The startup should have a product or solution that is commercially deployed with demonstrable customer adoption
- The startup should have an annual revenue of at least USD100,000.
At the discretion of QSTP, startups that do not meet these criteria may still be accepted into the program.
3. Target Audience
The QSTP Global Innovation Link program is open for all regional and international startups who meet the Eligibility Criteria. The program is also open for startups who are nominated by recognized national bodies such as science parks, growth accelerators, government agencies, universities and entrepreneurial support organizations. See section 7 for additional information about the application process. QSTP focuses on startups in the energy, environment, health sciences and technology sectors.
4. Benefits & Incentives
Participants in the QSTP Global Innovation Link program will receive a range of benefits and incentives, including:
- Access to free co-working space and high-speed internet at QSTP.
- Introductions to key stakeholders in government, industry, and academia.
- A weekly stipend of USD500 per team member to cover expenses.
- Opportunities to network with leading innovators and industry leaders.
- Exposure to potential partners, investors, and customers in the local market.
5. Participant Commitments
To maximize the benefits of the program, participants are expected to fulfil the following commitments:
- Be physically present at QSTP for the entire duration of the program.
- Deliver a lecture at QSTP about their team, their work, and the technologies they are developing.
- Submit a comprehensive report to QSTP detailing their visit and its outcomes.
- Engage in workshops, activities or events organized by QSTP.
The Global Innovation Link – Web Summit Edition application window is now closed. Please check this page periodically for updates on when the next cohort will start.
QSTP Application Form:
- Interested startups should apply by downloading the application form and emailing the completed application to global@qstp.org.qa along with any required substantiation documents.
- QSTP will review the applications based on the eligibility criteria and program objectives.
- Selected startups will be notified by QSTP and provided with further details about the participation arrangements.
Nomination by a Recognized National Body:
- Science parks, growth accelerators, government agencies, universities and entrepreneurial support organizations can nominate eligible startups to the program.
- Interested startups will still need to apply through the QSTP Application Form.
7. Evaluation Criteria
Startups who apply to the Global Innovation Link program will be evaluated by a committee based on the below evaluation criteria:
- Commitment to R&D activities
- Focus on technology
- Maturity level of the product
- Team commitment and competencies
- Market need and opportunity
- Clear business model
8. Showcase Your Cutting-Edge Solutions – Qatar Web Summit 2025
- Shape the Future: Participate in the Qatar Web Submit 2025, a premier event connecting entrepreneurs and companies with investors and industry leaders.
- Showcase Your Work: Exhibit your products and applications to during the event.
- Reach New Markets: Gain valuable exposure to potential partners, investors, and customers in the Middle East’s innovation hub.
- Qatar Web Summit Dates: 23-26 February 2025
Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your groundbreaking solutions.