Applications open for WISE EdTech Accelerator

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) has launched applications for its 2026-2027 EdTech Accelerator program, inviting seed- and pre-Series A-stage startups with market-ready educational technology products to apply by October 31. The program offers tailored support and connections to local and global investors to help participating startups scale their impact, with a focus on expanding educational solutions both in Qatar and internationally.

The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), a global initiative led by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, has opened applications for its 2026-2027 WISE EdTech Accelerator program. The call for entries targets educational technology startups from Qatar and around the world, with the application window closing on October 31. The new cohort is scheduled to commence activities in January 2027.

The accelerator is designed to support for-profit startups in the seed or pre-Series A funding stages that have moved beyond the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) phase. Eligible companies must offer market-ready products with demonstrated sales, user engagement, and measurable educational impact.

The program offers two distinct tracks—local and international—to address the varying needs of startups pursuing regional or global growth. Participants receive specialized mentorship, strategic business development support, and opportunities to connect with key stakeholders within the education and innovation sectors. Additionally, startups gain access to a worldwide network of investors.

The local track focuses on assisting companies aiming to establish a presence in Qatar, providing connections to local partners and relevant funding opportunities within the country's ecosystem.

Aurelio Amaral, WISE Director of Innovation, emphasized that while entrepreneurs in the EdTech sector are creating promising solutions to educational challenges, successful scaling requires more than just a strong product. “The programme aims to help founders build companies capable of delivering tangible educational impact and strengthen their readiness to move to higher stages of growth,” he said.

Since its inception over the past decade, the WISE EdTech Accelerator has supported more than 40 startups from 20 countries. These startups’ solutions have collectively reached over 15 million users across 130 countries. The 2025-2026 cohort included eight startups that achieved notable expansion, reaching over 2.9 million learners and educators while growing their operations within Qatar and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

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