![MCIT concludes 9th edition of Idea Camp](https://mcit.gov.qa/sites/default/files/eman-icd.jpg)
Monday, May 27, 2024
MCIT concludes 9th edition of Idea Camp
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), represented by the Digital Incubation Center, proudly announces the successful conclusion of the 9th Idea Camp. The closing ceremony, held on the 23rd of May at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), marked the culmination of a transformative journey for 25 startups that have been incubated in the Digital Incubation Center, out of which 5 outstanding prize winners were awarded a total of QAR 550,000 in grants.
The events 9th edition saw a significant and unprecedented response from startups and entrepreneurs, receiving over 450 applications from more than 30 countries. Over 135 entrepreneurs participated in the camp and have undergone a comprehensive series of training stages, including 10 specialized workshops.
This edition is structured into two main tracks: the Idea Track and the Growth Track: the Idea Track and the Growth Track. Both tracks are tailored to guide startups at different stages of development, from ideation to scaling their businesses. Participants have benefited from more than 350 expert mentoring hours, which prepared them to develop their skills and gain the knowledge necessary for the success of their projects.
The event concluded with a final judging round, during which 25 promising companies were selected to be incubated in the Digital Incubation Center.
The Idea Camp program provided substantial financial grants to startups, enabling them to elevate their innovative solutions to a higher level and enhance their impact in the technology sector both locally and internationally. The first-place winner in the Idea Track Alsethesis, a startup working in the health-tech sector focused on Autism received a grant of QAR 150,000, while the second-place winner Hash, a startup working on a smart addressing solution received QAR 100,000, and the third-place winner The Monet, a startup working on augmented reality and virtual spaces received QAR 50,000. In the Growth Track, the first-place winner Growa.ai, an Agri-tech startup working to transform the sector through IOT and machine learning, received QAR 150,000, while the second-place winner Q-Talent, a startup working in the health-tech received QAR 100,000.
These grants highlight the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial environment by supporting startups and empowering them through the provision of necessary resources for their growth and prosperity. This leads to a tangible positive impact on the entrepreneurial landscape both locally and internationally.
“The Idea Camp Program in its 9th edition is a significant milestone for our Digital Incubation Center, and it reflects our unwavering commitment to nurturing new generations of entrepreneurs,” stated Eman Ahmad Al-Kuwari, Director of the Digital Innovation Department. “This initiative is aligned with our strategic goals to accelerate digital transformation and foster a knowledge-based economy. The overwhelming response from startups worldwide clearly indicates the global reach and impact of our efforts. We are dedicated to providing a platform that not only propels these startups to success but also contributes to the nation’s broader economic objectives.”
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of Idea Camp 9. Their dedication and innovative ideas are paving the way for a brighter, tech-driven future.