QBIC, QBWA join hands to boost Qatar woman entrepreneurship

QBWA vice chairwoman Aisha Alfardan (left) and QBIC CEO Aysha al-Mudahka exchange documents after signing a memorandum of understanding to advocate their support for woman entrepreneurs in Qatar.

Qatar Business Incubation Centre (QBIC) and the Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advocate their support for woman entrepreneurs in Qatar.The agreement, which also serves as a commitment towards creating a modern, knowledge-based economy aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, was part of QBIC’s long-term plan to partner with establishments that aim to develop the local entrepreneurial scene and create opportunities for aspiring businesswomen. Based on the MoU, QBWA will grant discounted membership to QBIC woman entrepreneurs who wish to be part of the association, and grant them access to participate in QBWA’s year-long activities. QBIC woman entrepreneurs will also have the chance to take part in QBWA’s networking events as mentors or angel investors.  In addition, QBIC and QBWA are set to launch two programmes to support and encourage women entrepreneurs who feel uncomfortable working in ‘co-ed’ environments when starting their own businesses. The programmes will be similar to QBIC’s flagship 10-week LeanStartup Programme that helps entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into startups. QBWA vice chairwoman Aisha Alfardan said, “QBWA is delighted to partner with a reputable centre like QBIC. We’re looking forward to working on women-oriented entrepreneurial projects and welcome ambitious Qatari women to join QBWA.”For her part, QBIC CEO Aysha al-Mudahka said, “As a woman who has a deep passion for entrepreneurship, I immediately relate to women who have bright ideas and want to see them materialise. “My entrepreneurial journey wasn’t easy, but with the support I had, it was possible to achieve my career goals, and so I’m thrilled to be working with QBWA on an arrangement that will further assist Qatari women and support them through their innovative journey.” Alfardan said QBWA will assist QBIC in providing quality services and practical tools to help achieve its mission of developing “the next QR100mn value companies” in Qatar.“QBWA aims to focus on initiating partnerships with key stakeholders, who are providing support to entrepreneurs in Qatar, which will enable the association to offer a wide range of services to its members and to Qatari women who want to start their own businesses.“Our aim is to work with the new generation of woman entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas in order to transform them into successful businesses, which could help boost the economy,” she added.