Doha-based government-owned financial entity, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council in order to strengthen their strategic cooperation and support the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The agreement intends to open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs, in addition to supporting research, development, and innovation in emerging ventures.
With a focus on empowering startups in the country, the two parties will inaugurate their cooperation by launching an SME Product Management Bootcamp. Further, both parties will co-operate in formulating policy recommendations that promote the innovation ecosystem.
According to the statement, “The MoU paves the way for programs to enhance the skills of entrepreneurs and provide them with the tools required for success both at the national and international levels.”
The agreement creates opportunities to exchange experiences that are beneficial for both parties and all members of the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Abdulrahman Hesham Al Sowaidi Acting CEO – QDB
“We are pleased to partner with a leading member of the national business ecosystem. The MoU with QRDI Council will boost QDB’s endeavors which aim to empower entrepreneurs and SME owners. The agreement also places innovation and capability development at the heart of our work, which will positively influence the local economy at large.”
Engineer Omar Ali Al-Ansari, secretary-general of QRDI Council, stated that “the council strives to implement the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Strategy 2030 (QRDI 2030), which acts as a roadmap to develop the national innovation ecosystem.”
“QRDI 2030 encourages fruitful co-operation with local and global institutions. Thus, we are proud to enter this partnership with QDB and build a positive growth environment for SMEs. It also helps bolster innovation activities in leading national companies and international enterprises,” Eng. Al-Ansari added.
