Qatar University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and other key partners, is organizing Al Fikra 2026, a National Entrepreneurship Competition dedicated to fostering innovation within the higher education sector.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: National Entrepreneurship Competition (Higher Education Edition)
- For: Undergraduate and Graduate Students, Researchers, Staff, and Faculty in Qatar
- Key Benefits: Entrepreneurial knowledge development, commercialization pathways, access to international markets
- Application Status: Applications have closed (620 applicants submitted)
- Location: Doha, Qatar
Competition Overview
Al Fikra is Qatar’s leading entrepreneurship competition, designed to identify and support the country’s most promising innovators. Since shifting its focus to universities in 2022, the program specifically targets the higher education ecosystem to turn academic ideas into tangible socio-economic value.
The competition aims to:
- Foster a collaborative community of entrepreneurs and leaders within higher education.
- Enhance participants’ entrepreneurial knowledge and competencies.
- Support the growth of Qatar’s private sector by encouraging innovative, technology-driven, and deep-tech startups.
- Connect promising startups with international markets, partners, and opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the Al Fikra Higher Education Edition, applicants must belong to the academic community in Qatar. The opportunity is open to:
- Undergraduate students
- Graduate students
- Researchers
- Staff members
- Faculty members
- Teams representing higher education institutions across Qatar.
How to Apply
Please note: The application period for the current Al Fikra 2026 cycle has officially closed.
For questions regarding the current competition or information on future cycles, you may contact the organizers directly:
- Email: ALFIKRA@qu.edu.qa
- LinkedIn: Center for Entrepreneurship – College of Business & Economics
About Qatar University
Qatar University is the country’s premier public institution of higher education. Through initiatives like Al Fikra, and in partnership with organizations such as Qatar Development Bank and the Hult Prize Foundation, the university serves as a hub for knowledge and innovation, driving the development of the national entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Learn More: Qatar University
