REYADA Program

The HBKU REYADA Program aims to support innovative entrepreneurs in Qatar Foundation, the development of an entrepreneurship ecosystem and the realization of innovative business ideas. This program is designed as 18-month annual cycle in which entrepreneurs within Qatar Foundation will progress their business ideas that address the priority areas within the Qatar Vision 2030. The shortlisted entrepreneurs will be offered capacity building training and funding opportunities. 

The target audience of this program are candidates who have an innovative business idea different from conventional business models and who have an active Education City (EC) affiliation. Priority will be given to women entrepreneurs, students, and researchers in the target audience segment. Applications will be received online via the related web page. This program is run in partnership with Qatar Development Bank (QDB), a leading entity that fosters entrepreneurship and SME development in Qatar.

Program at a glance

• Timing: Starting in pre-Fall, within 1st half of August.
• Duration: 5–7 weeks (online mostly, during afternoons) - Program to conclude with a Demo Day during Fall.
• Eligible categories: Students with active Education City affiliation.

Benefits of REYADA

Capacity Building

→ Market Validation & Customer Discovery
→ Value Proposition & Positioning
→ Business Model Development
→ Prototyping Design and Development
→ Operational & Financial Basics
→ Pitch Readiness & Presentation Support

Mentoring

→ Guidance through customer discovery and iteration
→ Support in refining business models
→ Practical tips to pitch projects

Awards*

Top ideas will be recognized and rewarded with awards like:
REYADA Program Fund, ranging from 25K - 50K
Cash Prizes, ranging from 5K - 15K
Websummit Qatar tickets
*Eligibility criteria applies.

Connections

Teams gain opportunities to connect with relevant ecosystem stakeholders, industry contacts, and potential partners to support validation and growth.