Qatar-based startup Vora has won the Qatar regional round of the Startup World Cup, securing a place in the competition’s 2026 Grand Finale in San Francisco.
Vora will compete against startups from around the world for a $1M investment prize. The event is organised by Pegasus Tech Ventures.
Founded in 2025, Vora develops hardware and software designed to optimise existing air-conditioning systems. According to the company, its AI can reduce energy consumption by up to 40% and identify air-conditioning faults weeks before they occur.
Founder Anas Rustom said the team entered the competition with a newer pitch deck it was still testing. Vora ultimately prevailed after delivering its four-minute presentation, despite competing against startups with established revenues and strong pitches.
The win will see Vora represent Qatar at the global finale, adding an international milestone for the early-stage energy technology startup.
Source: LinkedIn
