Qatar Finance and Business Academy (QFBA), in partnership with Northumbria University Newcastle, invites innovative students and alumni to participate in the upcoming Startup Pitch Competition. This event provides a platform for emerging entrepreneurs to showcase their projects, compete for funding, and secure international exposure at the Web Summit.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Startup Pitch Competition
- For: Current students and alumni of Northumbria University in Qatar (teams may include outside members)
- Key Benefits: 10,000 QAR Prize and exhibition space at the Web Summit
- Application Deadline: January 10, 2026
- Location: Qatar
Competition Overview
The Startup Pitch Competition is designed to support entrepreneurs by offering a stage to present their work and turn innovative ideas into reality within the entrepreneurial world. Participants will submit existing projects to compete for awards, aiming to validate their business models and gain significant traction through funding and high-profile event participation.
Key Benefits
- Cash Prize: A monetary award of 10,000 QAR for winners.
- Global Exposure: Winners receive a participation space at the Web Summit within the QFBA booth.
- Validation: Opportunity to pitch to experts and receive recognition in specific business categories.
Eligibility Criteria
- Affiliation: Open to all current students and alumni from Northumbria University in Qatar.
- Team Composition: Participation is open to individuals or teams; team members from outside the university are permitted.
- Project Maturity: Only existing projects or startups are accepted; entries must have at least a working prototype or beta version.
- Sector: Projects from any industry are welcome, provided they demonstrate innovation and technology.
Award Categories
Participants will compete for recognition in the following specific areas:
- Best Innovation
- Best AI Startup
- Best Business Model
- Best Market Potential
Key Dates and Schedule
- Submission Deadline: January 10, 2026
- Qualified Startups Notification: January 18, 2026
- Final Pitch Event: January 25, 2026
How to Apply
Aspiring participants must submit their application by January 10, 2026.
To apply, you must complete the submission form, which requires a high-quality startup logo and a pitch deck (PDF/PPT format). The pitch deck is limited to 10 slides maximum and must cover: The Problem, The Solution, Unique Selling Points (USPs), Business Model, Traction, Go-To-Market Strategy, and Team.
Note: Applicants must agree to exhibit at the Web Summit for the full four-day duration if selected as a winner.
About QFBA and Northumbria University
Qatar Finance and Business Academy (QFBA) collaborates with Northumbria University Newcastle to offer industry-relevant academic degrees in Qatar. Together, they aim to empower the nation’s human capital and support the development of the financial and business sectors through education and innovation.
