Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), part of the Qatar Foundation, has launched a revamped Incubation Programme with its Fall 2026 cohort, aiming to accelerate the development of startups from validation to investment readiness. The new 16-week program welcomes 52 startups, comprising 25 local and 27 international companies, across 19 sectors including education technology, medical technology, financial technology, cybersecurity, and sports technology.
The updated program introduces a structured, three-phase pathway designed to provide a comprehensive support system for emerging ventures. It begins with a four-week Sprint phase focused on testing and strengthening startups in critical areas such as product-market fit, go-to-market strategies, product readiness, market potential, financial frameworks, and team dynamics. During this phase, founders engage in workshops, hands-on development, mentorship, market research, and pitching sessions to validate their assumptions and demonstrate progress.
Following the initial phase, selected startups advance to an eight-week Incubation phase, where the emphasis shifts to execution. Participants work on establishing their businesses, engaging with the local market, securing pilot projects, and preparing for regional expansion. The program facilitates connections to pilot opportunities and provides strategic guidance to help startups scale.
The final four-week Funding phase is dedicated to connecting ventures that have demonstrated readiness with potential investors. QSTP will aid in arranging investor meetings and supporting follow-up discussions to help secure capital for further growth.
Rama Chakaki, president of QSTP, emphasized the importance of this methodical approach, noting that successful startups rely on testing assumptions, proving market demand, and turning findings into actionable steps. He highlighted that the redesigned Incubation Programme is intended to equip founders with the support and opportunities required to establish and grow their companies both within Qatar and across the wider region.
The Fall 2026 cohort, which began the program on September 1, marks the first group to participate in this updated incubation framework, reflecting QSTP’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Qatar’s evolving startup ecosystem.