QDB launches new identity to reflect evolving role in Qatar’s economy

Invest Qatar has unveiled a new initiative, Road to Web Summit Qatar 2027, aimed at bolstering the readiness of high-potential startups for enhanced commercial and investor engagement. This program, a part of Startup Qatar, has been co-developed with Web Summit and key figures from the startup ecosystem in Qatar. It will consist of an intensive, two-day bootcamp incorporating personalized coaching and simulations modeled after the Web Summit format.

Participating startups will be provided with customized assistance in areas such as pitch refinement, go-to-market strategy, media preparedness, event branding optimization, and investor meeting planning. Dr. Hamad Rashid Al Naimi, Chief Strategy Officer of Invest Qatar, stated that the program's aim is to transform global exposure into tangible commercial results by providing startups with the necessary coaching and practical preparation to engage investors confidently, articulate their growth potential effectively, and foster connections that promote international expansion.

This initiative is in line with Startup Qatar’s goal of enhancing the commercial preparedness of startups and linking high-potential companies with investors, strategic allies, and opportunities for global growth. The program’s key partners include the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Government Communications Office, Qatar Investment Authority, Qatar Development Bank, Qatar Science and Technology Park, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University.

Road to Web Summit Qatar 2027 will bring together a curated group of 10-15 startups identified from Qatar’s innovation and entrepreneurship programs, forming a high-performance cohort in preparation for the 2027 Web Summit. This approach reflects the heightened competition among early-stage startups, where success hinges not only on innovation but also on demonstrating a viable business model, a scalable market opportunity, prudent capital management, and a clear growth trajectory.

Web Summit Qatar is anticipated to host over 30,000 participants, including 1,500 startups and 800 investors, alongside global technology firms, media entities, and ecosystem collaborators. The selected startups will have access to investor meetings, expert lectures, mentorship, networking prospects, and other event features aimed at facilitating connections with investors, customers, partners, and global media.