The Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council, in a strategic partnership with Qatar Development Bank (QDB), has successfully concluded the 10th edition of its SME Program, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem and accelerating the growth of local enterprises within the country.
An Intensive Bootcamp for Product Development
Held over five days, the intensive bootcamp brought together a select group of entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators from across Qatar. The program was meticulously designed to strengthen their product development capabilities and significantly enhance their market readiness.
Participants were immersed in a curriculum centered on practical application, including the Seven Habits for Successful Product Management and the 5D Framework. These tools equipped attendees with a structured approach to identifying customer needs, validating market opportunities, and building resilient business models. The workshops covered the full innovation journey, from initial concept discovery and market research to prototyping and developing a robust commercial case.
Expert-Led Sessions and Government Support
This milestone edition featured valuable insights from prominent industry experts, including Karan Pinto, Studio Director & CTO of The Studio, and Abdulrahman Al Thani, Founder and CEO of Muallemi. Their sessions provided real-world perspectives on navigating the challenges of product creation and market entry.
In addition to external expertise, QRDI-led modules highlighted the Council’s own suite of innovation platforms designed to support local businesses. Participants were introduced to key resources such as the InnoLight Portal, the Technology Development Grant (TDG), and the Small Business Innovation Grant (SBG), showcasing direct pathways to government support. The bootcamp culminated in final project presentations, where teams showcased their developed product strategies, followed by a certificate distribution ceremony.
About QRDI Council
QRDI Council is a government entity with the mission to support research, development and innovation (RDI) activities as well as to develop RDI talent in Qatar. Playing a pivotal role within the Qatar National Development Strategy, the QRDI Council is actively shaping the Innovation component of the Economic Diversification goal. The Council’s commitment underlines its unwavering dedication to the Qatar National Vision 2030. QRDI Council aims to make Qatar a global innovation hub and a top choice for R&D centers worldwide.
Source: Zawya
