Qatar Business Incubation Centre (QBIC), a division of Qatar Development Bank (QDB), has announced the launch the first wave of its Lean Fashion Programme following the selection of more than 15 startups represented by promising designers and entrepreneurs in Qatar.
The Lean Fashion Programme is one of QBIC’s latest specialised programmes and the first of its kind in Qatar.
In collaboration with the Fashion Technology Accelerator, an international centre based in Milan dedicated to promoting technical innovation and assisting startups in the fashion industry, QBIC developed the programme to equip aspiring designers and entrepreneurs with a holistic understanding of conducting business in the fashion industry, enabling them to transform their ideas into Qatari fashion brands.
The programme is comprises two acceleration phases: The first is an initial acceleration phase, which will take place in Doha over six weeks and aims to empower entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools to develop their ideas.
The second phase will be delivered in Milan following the selection of the top participating startups where they will learn how to grow their business with the aid of international industry experts over a two-week period.
Additionally, QBIC has signed an agreement with Msheireb Museums to conduct all workshops during the initial acceleration phase at Bin Jelmood House to inspire participating entrepreneurs in one of Doha’s most historic districts.
QBIC general manager Hamad al-Qahtani said: “I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the first wave of the Lean Fashion Programme. We hope that these aspiring entrepreneurs can turn their ideas and talents into successful fashion startups, following in the footsteps of hundreds of QBIC graduates that came before them.
“QBIC recently launched several other specialised programmes, including the Lean Coach Programme and the Lean Manufacturing Programme, aiming at expanding entrepreneurial fields to provide entrepreneurs with the best possible opportunities to develop their ideas.”
Msheireb Museums public programme manager Abdulla al-Naama said: “We are proud to be partnering with QBIC on one of its newest programmes as they have played an essential role in developing the capabilities of local entrepreneurs. The Lean Fashion Programme aligns with our mission as an interactive cultural hub, offering the community initiatives that enhance skills and promote innovation.”
The first session kicked-off with a motivational talk from guest speaker Nayla Ahmad, a professor and brand development consultant from VCU Qatar.
The participants drew inspiration from Ahmad, who shared invaluable tips about running a business within the fashion domain.
QBIC, in collaboration with Fashion Technology Accelerator, plans to organise the first Demo Day for the Lean Fashion Programme in Milan, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with investors, seasoned manufacturers, and distributors.
Details about QBIC and its latest programmes are available online at www.qbic.qa.
Some of the aspiring designers and entrepreneurs taking part in the programme.
