Qatar Foundation Research & Development Launches Exciting Awards Program

Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF), a centre of Qatar Foundation Research and Development (QF R&D), is launching a funding programme for entrepreneurs looking to make a positive impact on the economy of Qatar.

Envisioned as a catalyst to develop new and creative inventions, the Qatar Innovation Promotion Award (QIPA) will fund individuals from all sectors and at all levels in the country.

Over a 12-month period, successful applicants will receive financial support of up to US$100,000 from QNRF, to develop models or prototypes of their ideas to demonstrate their feasibility.

Those awarded will also receive post-award, non-financial mentoring to strengthen their plans, in addition to gaining access to further business development, logistical support, and investment opportunities.

Commenting on the announcement of this new programme, Dr Abdul Sattar Al-Taie, Executive Director of QNRF said: “In the short term, we believe this new programme will encourage innovation, which in the long run will help Qatar achieve its 2030 vision of a knowledge-based economy and increase the nation’s productivity through economic diversification.”

Elaborating further on the benefits of the new award scheme, Dr. Abdulnasser Al-Ansari, QNRF’s Deputy Executive Director added: “This programme will help individuals to develop their knowledge and build on creativity to turn fundamental understanding into engines of innovation.” 

To apply, Qatari citizens and residents should submit their proposals through QNRF’s online submission channel QGrants before 11 August 2014. Proposals will then be evaluated for their technical feasibility, social impact, market potential, and overall competitiveness of the team and ideas presented.