Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH), in partnership with the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), have launched the FinTech Development Grant to accelerate the growth of local FinTech startups. This initiative offers milestone-based funding and strategic support to help founders achieve qregulatory compliance, refine their products, and successfully deploy into the market.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Grant Program (Milestone-linked co-funding)
- For: Qatar-based FinTechs (MVP-ready or early traction)
- Key Benefits: Milestone funding, regulatory guidance, technical product support
- Deadline: Open Now
- Location: Qatar
Grant Overview
The FinTech Development Grant is designed to reduce barriers to market entry and cultivate a robust pipeline of credible financial technology solutions in Qatar. Aligned with the Qatar Central Bank’s National FinTech Strategy, the program provides milestone-linked co-funding support. The initiative specifically targets critical activities on a startup’s roadmap, focusing on three core pillars: regulatory readiness, product readiness, and market deployment. It aims to diversify financial services within the country by helping startups scale sustainably.
Key Benefits
Participants in the grant program will receive structured support designed to accelerate their path to market:
- Milestone Funding: Financial support structured around specific goals to aid product development and market deployment.
- Regulatory Support: A structured pathway to assist FinTechs in navigating their licensing journey with the Qatar Central Bank.
- Product Development: Technical development assistance to build a deployment-ready product.
- Market Readiness: Support in establishing partnerships, achieving market validation, and driving growth.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to startups that meet the following requirements:
- Location: Must be a Qatar-based FinTech.
- Stage: Startups must be MVP-ready or demonstrating early traction.
- Type: Open to FinTech and FinTech-infrastructure startups.
- Sandbox Participation: Startups participating in Qatar Central Bank’s Regulatory Sandbox are eligible.
- Eligible Sectors: Payments, InsurTech, RegTech, Islamic Finance, WealthTech, SME Finance, Open Banking, Embedded Finance, Digital Assets, and Emerging Technologies serving the financial sector.
Application Requirements
To determine fit and potential areas of support, applicants must complete an assessment form that evaluates product readiness, compliance, and operational capabilities. You will need to provide:
- Basic company details.
- Product materials (demo, architecture, or presentation deck).
- Core policies (e.g., AML/KYC, data protection).
- Supporting evidence such as MOUs, LOIs, or certifications.
How to Apply
Founders looking to scale their FinTech solutions are encouraged to apply immediately. The application process typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete.
Click here to apply for the FinTech Development Grant
About Qatar FinTech Hub
Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH) is a global FinTech hub with the purpose of supporting the development of the FinTech industry in Qatar. Launched by Qatar Development Bank (QDB) in collaboration with Qatar Central Bank (QCB), it aims to facilitate collaboration among participants and stakeholders of the FinTech ecosystem to develop local and global relationships that will advance the industry.
Learn More: Qatar FinTech Hub Application Portal
