An official speaking during the 'Scale Now' programme.
Doha: As part of its efforts to strengthen the digital ecosystem for entrepreneurs and startups, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has launched the 'Scale Now' program, the first of its kind in Qatar to support digital entrepreneurs. The program provides them with the necessary tools and mentorship to accelerate their business growth and expand into local, regional, and international markets.
This initiative aligns with the ministry’s strategy to enhance the digital economy, supporting the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030 by fostering a thriving digital innovation environment and developing startups, positioning Qatar as a leading regional hub for the digital economy.
The ‘Scale Now’ program is built on three core pillars designed to drive startup growth and empower entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable success. First, Capability Building & Mentorship, where participants receive intensive hands-on guidance from a distinguished network of global experts in entrepreneurship, business strategy, and operational management, helping them refine their business models and enhance their competitiveness. Second, Local Go-To-Market Support, which enables
direct engagement with local
market leaders, facilitating the establishment of strategic relationships and business partnerships to strengthen their presence in the Qatari business landscape.
Lastly, Expansion Readiness Support, providing startups with the necessary tools and effective strategies to scale into regional and global markets, unlocking new growth and innovation opportunities on an international scale. In this regard, Faraj Jassim Abdulla, Director of the Digital Economy Department at MCIT, stated: ‘Scale Now’ program represents a significant step in empowering digital entrepreneurs in Qatar, equipping them with the tools and guidance needed to scale their businesses and expand into local and global markets.
This initiative reflects MCIT’s commitment to fostering startups and driving digital innovation, in alignment with the goals of the Digital Agenda 2030. Through Capability Building & Mentorship, Local Go-To-Market Support, and Expansion Readiness Support, ‘Scale Now’ contributes to establishing Qatar as a regional hub for the digital economy and supports economic diversification by enabling startups to achieve long-term sustainability and growth.” The ministry has launched the first cohort of the “Scale Now” programme, featuring six digital entrepreneurs from various sectors, reinforcing its commitment to supporting startups and enhancing digital innovation in the entrepreneurship sector. Future cohorts are planned to accommodate 15 entrepreneurs per six-month cycle, providing them with comprehensive support for scaling their businesses.
The program seeks to attract startups that meet specific criteria, ensuring optimal utilization of its resources while strengthening Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. To qualify for the program, companies must be officially registered in Qatar, have a market-ready product or service, and demonstrate a clear ability to maintain continuous operations throughout the program duration. The initiative also prioritises companies with a strategic vision for expansion within Qatar and strong readiness for regional and global growth.
This initiative is part of MCIT’s broader efforts to promote digital innovation and enhance the digital entrepreneurship landscape, reaffirming its commitment to establishing Qatar as a global leader in the digital economy. The programme provides a promising platform for local entrepreneurs to seize expansion opportunities in new markets. It is expected to drive startup growth, enhance their global competitiveness, and contribute to economic diversification, reinforcing the key pillars of the Digital Agenda 2030.
