A content and technology provider company from the UK has lauded Qatar’s commitment to promote a culture of entrepreneurship and to develop the country’s startup ecosystem.
“When we observed the infrastructure Qatar is providing, and how this ecosystem is important to organisations like Qatar SportsTech (QST), Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), and the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), as well as news agencies and newspapers, we understood that this country is a great environment for us to grow,” Sponix Tech founder and CEO Mohamed Ali Abbaspour told Gulf Times.
Sponix is producing unique immersive contents that could be useful for sports audiences, broadcasters, and sponsors during large scale events, such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Led by Abbaspour and business development director Mohsen Rajabi, Sponix was chosen from among 500 companies to be part of the QST programme, which works with beIN Sports and the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) to develop new sports technologies.
Asked how QST helps startups develop into full-fledged sports tech companies, Abbaspour said the organisation provides co-workspaces, workshops on business and finance, and development strategies, among others.
“Learning is a big part of this experience through seminars, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. While this can cover a huge array of topics relevant to launching a venture, some of the most valuable are often on the legal side and how to pitch an idea.
“The QST programme is time intensive, where startups like Sponix Tech are forced to really focus and make progress. During this acceleration period, we have plenty of opportunities to network with our peers, other industry support providers, and potential investors. These connections can prove invaluable,” he stressed.
On digitisation and innovation in Qatar's startup ecosystem, Abbaspour pointed out that attending the QST programme “is not a mandatory prerequisite for launching or growing a successful startup.”
“But this is different when we see Qatar’s ambition in becoming a hub for a startup ecosystem in the region. In deciding to join an accelerator like QST, we analysed the value and what connections and interests the programme organisers really have,” he explained.
Aside from business-related organisations in the country, Abbaspour also praised Qatar’s ICT infrastructure and how startups could maximise facilities for their development and growth.
“Because our services are directly dependent on ICT infrastructure, these high-quality facilities are so valuable for our technologies and our startup. The ICT infrastructure of Qatar is amazing. On the other hand, one of the most important applications of any infrastructure is content, so because in Sponix we can produce unique and immersive contents, we can use these great infrastructure potentials to the highest levels.
“Obviously, 5G infrastructure is also important for startups, especially for those in the technology fields. For example, in the field of sports technologies, a 5G network is so important; it can be very helpful in venues technologies and fan engagement solutions. These great facilities definitely convinced many talented startups from around the globe to join Qatar’s startup ecosystem,” he added.
Sponix is producing unique immersive contents that could be useful for sports audiences, broadcasters, and sponsors during large scale events, such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Led by Abbaspour and business development director Mohsen Rajabi, Sponix was chosen from among 500 companies to be part of the QST programme, which works with beIN Sports and the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) to develop new sports technologies.
Asked how QST helps startups develop into full-fledged sports tech companies, Abbaspour said the organisation provides co-workspaces, workshops on business and finance, and development strategies, among others.
“Learning is a big part of this experience through seminars, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. While this can cover a huge array of topics relevant to launching a venture, some of the most valuable are often on the legal side and how to pitch an idea.
“The QST programme is time intensive, where startups like Sponix Tech are forced to really focus and make progress. During this acceleration period, we have plenty of opportunities to network with our peers, other industry support providers, and potential investors. These connections can prove invaluable,” he stressed.
On digitisation and innovation in Qatar's startup ecosystem, Abbaspour pointed out that attending the QST programme “is not a mandatory prerequisite for launching or growing a successful startup.”
“But this is different when we see Qatar’s ambition in becoming a hub for a startup ecosystem in the region. In deciding to join an accelerator like QST, we analysed the value and what connections and interests the programme organisers really have,” he explained.
Aside from business-related organisations in the country, Abbaspour also praised Qatar’s ICT infrastructure and how startups could maximise facilities for their development and growth.
“Because our services are directly dependent on ICT infrastructure, these high-quality facilities are so valuable for our technologies and our startup. The ICT infrastructure of Qatar is amazing. On the other hand, one of the most important applications of any infrastructure is content, so because in Sponix we can produce unique and immersive contents, we can use these great infrastructure potentials to the highest levels.
“Obviously, 5G infrastructure is also important for startups, especially for those in the technology fields. For example, in the field of sports technologies, a 5G network is so important; it can be very helpful in venues technologies and fan engagement solutions. These great facilities definitely convinced many talented startups from around the globe to join Qatar’s startup ecosystem,” he added.