Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has partnered with Volkswagen Middle East and its local representative, Q-Auto, to launch an innovative mobility incubation programme. This strategic alliance aims to support startups in developing cutting-edge mobility solutions, smart infrastructure, and quality management systems. The collaboration was announced as QDB prepares to kick start its Lean Startup Programme and Lean Coach Programme. By leveraging Volkswagen’s expertise, QBIC (Qatar Business Incubator Centre) will provide specialized guidance and support to entrepreneurs, enhancing their leadership skills and accelerating their growth within the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
The recent launch of the mobility incubation programme follows the signing of a partnership agreement between Dr Hamad Salem Mejegheer, the executive director of QDB’s Advisory and Incubation Services, and Ahmed Shariefi, the managing director of Q-Auto. Under the umbrella of QBIC, one of the largest mixed-use incubators in the region, the new programme will offer seed funding, incubation programmes, and services to facilitate the growth of startups and scale-ups.
QDB aims to bolster economic diversification and enhance the private sector’s contribution to the local economy through specialized incubation programmes such as this one. Dr. Mejegheer highlights that the partnership with Volkswagen and Q-Auto will provide an incubation environment that supports innovative projects in the field of mobility solutions. This collaboration will ultimately advance QDB’s mission and contribute to the growth of Qatar’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Ahmed Shariefi, the managing director of Q-Auto, expresses Q-Auto’s commitment to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Qatar’s transport sector. The strategic partnership with QDB marks an important milestone for Q-Auto and reinforces its dedication to promoting the rapid growth of the country’s transport industry.
Looking ahead, the mobility incubation programme will be instrumental in driving entrepreneurship in Qatar, creating an environment that supports the development of innovative and sustainable solutions in the mobility sector. With a focus on digital transformation and mobility solutions, the programme will explore groundbreaking technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). It will also address avant-garde transportation challenges, bringing together local entrepreneurs and startups to showcase their innovative products and services across various industries.
QDB’s collaboration with Volkswagen and Q-Auto signifies a great leap forward for Qatar’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. By providing specialized guidance and leveraging Volkswagen’s expertise, startups in Qatar will receive the support they need to turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. This partnership reflects the commitment to economic diversification and underscores the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. Qatar is poised to become a hub for mobility solutions and create a thriving ecosystem that nurtures and empowers entrepreneurs.
