*Initiative to support local entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the fashion, design and technology industries and nurture a thriving startup ecosystem
Qatar Museums (QM) and Qatar Development Bank (QDB) have signed an agreement to establish an incubation centre at M7, the new design, innovation and entrepreneurship hub located in Msheireb Downtown Doha.
The agreement, signed by Ahmad Musa al-Namla, CEO of Qatar Museums, and Abdulaziz bin Nasser al-Khalifa, CEO of QDB, in a ceremony at M7, lays the foundation for the two entities to support local entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the fashion, design and technology industries and nurture a thriving startup ecosystem.
The M7 incubation centre will ensure that entrepreneurs are provided with professional guidance and support through all phases of startup development as well as coaching to hone the technical and non-technical skills needed to accelerate the growth and value of a business.
At the signing ceremony, al-Namla said, “In joining hands with Qatar Development Bank, Qatar Museums is able to further its aim to support aspiring fashion and design entrepreneurs to realise their business ambitions. Through expert training and mentorship, entrepreneurs will be able to turn their creative passions and endeavours into tangible and marketable business ideas.
“We are excited to partner with QDB on the M7 incubation centre, an essential platform for creatives to collaborate and exchange ideas that bring their vision to life and contribute to Qatar’s diverse, thriving cultural landscape.”
Al-Khalifa said, “The Scale 7 aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the fashion and design industries in Qatar. QDB's partnership with Qatar Museums is an important part of our vision to build a strong national network to achieve common goals that contribute towards the diversification of the national economy and are in line with the bank's strategy and responsibilities.”
The agreement outlines QDB’s mentorship and training, including seminars and workshops for technical business learning and knowledge; mentoring tailored to an entrepreneur's business; networking and support within the local entrepreneurial community; and connecting incubates with potential investors, customers or partners.
Entrepreneurs will also have access to a 10-week startup programme and guidance from high-profile mentors and successful entrepreneurs.
Such mentorship will also include a speaker series, where fashion and design startups will gain access to joint events and fashion shows, facilities and marketing campaigns.
