Qatar Foundation Research, Development and Innovation Opens Applications for Innovation Coupon Challenge 2022

Doha, February 28 (QNA) - Qatar Foundation Research, Development and Innovation (QF RDI) is inviting individuals and startups to apply to its new Innovation Coupon Challenge 2022, aimed at developing ideas into marketable products. The grant is open to innovators with breakthrough ideas to support Qatars hosting of mega sporting events such as this years FIFA World Cup. Top projects will be awarded with funding of up to QAR 200,000 and will receive technical guidance, access to expert advice, pitch training, and connections to industry experts and investors to bring their products closer to the market. Commenting on the new initiative, project lead for QF RDIs Innovation Coupon (IC), Faiha al Qahtani said "Qatar hosting the Middle East's first-ever FIFA World Cup will shape the future of sports in the country and the region. It also presents an unprecedented opportunity for businesses to grow, while the eyes of the world are on Qatars booming innovation ecosystem" "With our IC grant, we want to build on this exciting momentum and invest in creative innovators and entrepreneurs who can solve some of the challenges that will be posed before, during and after the tournament," she added. "We are casting a wide net with individuals, startups and SMEs from all industries invited to apply. It will be thrilling to see and evaluate the submissions, and find both inspiring and forward-looking solutions that can impact lives for the better," Al Qahtani said . IC is aimed at Qatar-based entrepreneurs, startups, or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from all sectors and industries that are engaged in the development of new technology-rich products and services. The fund is designed to benefit individuals and teams that have the needed capacity and technical knowledge to develop their product or service but require more support to resolve a specific technical or business problem. (QNA)