Latest news with #QRDICouncil
Qatar Tribune
21-07-2025
- Science
- Qatar Tribune
QRDI Council awards 30 proposals for 6 Rapid Research Calls
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council announced 30 awards to seven institutions who will collaborate with the selected host partners on six Rapid Research Calls. Each research call is designed not only to produce practical, scalable solutions but also to build lasting research capacity within local institutions. Dr. Omar Boukhris, Director of National Research Program at QRDI Council, said: 'We look forward to the outcomes of these initiatives and their impact on shaping the nation's future. These collaborations are a clear reflection of QRDI Council's commitment to advancing toward Qatar's National Vision 2030. We will continue to champion and support research that drives innovative, practical solutions for the country's long-term growth.' The six Rapid Research Calls, along with their awarded institutions and host partners, are as follows: Education Above All: Life-Long Education Call (LiLEC) Awarded Institutions: Georgetown University in Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation, and Northwestern University in Qatar. This initiative focuses on creating an environment that supports lifelong learning by transforming education systems, improving policies, and encouraging workforce development. The goal is to enhance economic resilience and empower individuals through education. Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA): Modernising Charitable Sector Call (MCSC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Northwestern University in Qatar, and Qatar University. This call aims to strengthen Qatar's charitable and humanitarian sectors by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve performance and efficiency. It also looks to introduce innovative approaches to make humanitarian and developmental work more impactful. Qatar National Library (QNL): Preserving Qatar's Heritage Call (PQHC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Qatar University. This project is dedicated to building a sustainable heritage sector that preserves Qatar's cultural legacy for future generations. By developing resilient strategies, it ensures the protection and promotion of the nation's rich history. Scientific Research Programmes Office: Pathways Toward Prosperity (PTP) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This initiative addresses critical national priorities to support Qatar's sustainable development and economic growth. It focuses on identifying pathways to prosperity by tackling key challenges and promoting innovation. Qatar Airways: Qatar Logistics and Transportation Call (QLTC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This call aims to develop a sustainable logistics and transportation sector that contributes to Qatar's prosperity. A particular focus is placed on advancing solutions for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to promote environmentally friendly practices in aviation. Ministry of Public Health (MoPH): Road to BioPharma Call (RTBC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar University, and Sidra Medicine. This initiative seeks to establish a regulatory framework that encourages innovation in biopharmaceuticals. It also aims to improve access to high-quality medicines, contributing to better healthcare outcomes for Qatar's population. By addressing pressing challenges and utilising the power of strategic partnerships, these research projects highlight Qatar'scommitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy. These awards reflect the Council's dedication to empowering researchers, strengthening institutional capabilities, and driving forward Qatar's ambition to become a global leader in research, development, and innovation.
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Science
- Zawya
QRDI Council award 30 proposals for six Rapid Research Calls
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council announce 30 awards to seven institutions who will collaborate with the selected host partners on six Rapid Research Calls. Each research call is designed not only to produce practical, scalable solutions but also to build lasting research capacity within local institutions. Dr. Omar Boukhris, Director of National Research Program at QRDI Council said: 'We look forward to the outcomes of these initiatives and their impact on shaping the nation's future. These collaborations are a clear reflection of QRDI Council's commitment to advancing toward Qatar's National Vision 2030. We will continue to champion and support research that drives innovative, practical solutions for the country's long-term growth.' The six Rapid Research Calls, along with their awarded institutions and host partners, are as follows: Education Above All: Life-Long Education Call (LiLEC) Awarded Institutions: Georgetown University in Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation, and Northwestern University in Qatar. This initiative focuses on creating an environment that supports lifelong learning by transforming education systems, improving policies, and encouraging workforce development. The goal is to enhance economic resilience and empower individuals through education. Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA): Modernizing Charitable Sector Call (MCSC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Northwestern University in Qatar, and Qatar University. This call aims to strengthen Qatar's charitable and humanitarian sectors by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve performance and efficiency. It also looks to introduce innovative approaches to make humanitarian and developmental work more impactful. Qatar National Library (QNL): Preserving Qatar's Heritage Call (PQHC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Qatar University. This project is dedicated to building a sustainable heritage sector that preserves Qatar's cultural legacy for future generations. By developing resilient strategies, it ensures the protection and promotion of the nation's rich history. Scientific Research Programs Office: Pathways Toward Prosperity (PTP) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This initiative addresses critical national priorities to support Qatar's sustainable development and economic growth. It focuses on identifying pathways to prosperity by tackling key challenges and promoting innovation. Qatar Airways: Qatar Logistics and Transportation Call (QLTC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This call aims to develop a sustainable logistics and transportation sector that contributes to Qatar's prosperity. A particular focus is placed on advancing solutions for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to promote environmentally friendly practices in aviation. Ministry of Public Health (MoPH): Road to BioPharma Call (RTBC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar University, and Sidra Medicine. This initiative seeks to establish a regulatory framework that encourages innovation in biopharmaceuticals. It also aims to improve access to high-quality medicines, contributing to better healthcare outcomes for Qatar's population. By addressing pressing challenges and utilizing the power of strategic partnerships, these research projects highlight Qatar's commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy. These awards reflect the Council's dedication to empowering researchers, strengthening institutional capabilities, and driving forward Qatar's ambition to become a global leader in research, development, and innovation. About QRDI Council QRDI Council is a government entity with the mission to support research, development and innovation (RDI) activities as well as to develop RDI talent in Qatar. The Council strives to make Qatar a top destination for global talent and a pioneering research, innovation, and development hub with its motto 'locally empowered, globally connected'. Playing a pivotal role within the Qatar National Development Strategy, the QRDI Council is actively shaping the Innovation component of the Economic Diversification goal. The Council's commitment underlines its unwavering dedication to the Qatar National Vision 2030. QRDI Council aims to make Qatar a global innovation hub and a top choice for R&D centers worldwide, seeing RDI as vital for Qatar's growth and prosperity.
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New partnership established to empower Qatari SMEs
Doha - Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council announces a new partnership with Qatar's Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to empower Qatari small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through strategic intellectual property (IP) management and innovation. This collaboration, which marks a significant milestone in Qatar's innovation journey, aims to embed IP as a core business driver for the nation's entrepreneurs and innovators. The partnership officially launched with the WIPO IP Management Clinics for Qatari SMEs - Introductory Webinar. Senior Intellectual Property Expert at QRDI Council, Rosena Nhlabatsi said: 'This partnership is a step forward in strengthening Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. By equipping SMEs with tools and knowledge to strategically manage their intellectual property, we are enabling them to unlock new opportunities for growth, funding, and global competitiveness. Together with MoCI and WIPO, we aim to position IP as a cornerstone of innovation and economic diversification in Qatar.' Department Manager at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Abdulbasit Al Ajji commented: 'The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its intellectual property departments, plays a central role in disseminating the culture of intellectual property across all scientific and technological fields in the State of Qatar. By supporting initiatives like the Intellectual Property Management Clinic, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of IP protection and empower innovators and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into valuable economic assets. 'This initiative aligns with our commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy grounded in innovation and creativity.' Associate Program Officer, IP for Business Division, IP and Innovation Ecosystems Sector, WIPO Sarah Nassar said, 'We are proud to launch the Intellectual Property Management Clinic (IPMC) in Qatar. This partnership marks a strong step in supporting Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. By equipping SMEs with strategic IP tools and knowledge, we aim, together with MoCI and QRDI, to make IP a key driver of innovation, investment, and economic diversification in Qatar.' The partnership between QRDI Council, MoCI, and WIPO signifies the start of Qatar's first national initiative dedicated to helping SMEs strategically harness IP for growth, funding, and global competitiveness. By aligning with global IP standards and practices, the initiative is set to show new value across Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Webinar served as the formal launchpad for the National IP Management Clinics, which will officially roll out in September 2025. The online session introduced participants to Smart IP Management, through 5 key dimensions, including a focus on branding strategy and an introduction to the WIPO Madrid System. The workshop also gave a sneak peek into the upcoming clinic, designed to offer one-on-one IP diagnostics and hands-on guidance by IP and business experts. Attendees included startups, business owners, and entrepreneurs from across Qatar eager to learn how to protect and profit from their ideas. Unlike conventional workshops, the National IP Management Clinics will deliver tailored IP assessments for each SME, practical commercialization strategies and integration of IP into real-world business decisions, licensing, and scaling strategies. Applications for participation in the full National IP Management Clinics program are open ahead of the September launch. Selected SMEs will benefit from personalized, expert-led sessions aimed at transforming intellectual assets into engines of growth. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
15-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
QRDI Council, MoCI and WIPO establish new partnership
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council announces a new partnership with Qatar's Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to empower Qatari small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through strategic intellectual property (IP) management and innovation. This collaboration, which marks a significant milestone in Qatar's innovation journey, aims to embed IP as a core business driver for the nation's entrepreneurs and innovators. The partnership officially launched with the WIPO IP Management Clinics for Qatari SMEs - Introductory Webinar. Rosena Nhlabatsi, Senior Intellectual Property Expert at QRDI Council said: 'This partnership is a step forward in strengthening Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. By equipping SMEs with tools and knowledge to strategically manage their intellectual property, we are enabling them to unlock new opportunities for growth, funding, and global competitiveness. Together with MoCI and WIPO, we aim to position IP as a cornerstone of innovation and economic diversification in Qatar.' Mr. Abdulbasit Al Ajji, Department Manager at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, commented: 'The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its intellectual property departments, plays a central role in disseminating the culture of intellectual property across all scientific and technological fields in the State of Qatar. By supporting initiatives like the Intellectual Property Management Clinic, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of IP protection and empower innovators and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into valuable economic assets. This initiative aligns with our commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy grounded in innovation and creativity.' Sarah Nassar, Associate Program Officer, IP for Business Division, IP and Innovation Ecosystems Sector, WIPO"We are proud to launch the Intellectual Property Management Clinic (IPMC) in Qatar. This partnership marks a strong step in supporting Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. By equipping SMEs with strategic IP tools and knowledge, we aim, together with MoCI and QRDI, to make IP a key driver of innovation, investment, and economic diversification in Qatar.' The partnership between QRDI Council, MoCI, and WIPO signifies the start of Qatar's first national initiative dedicated to helping SMEs strategically harness IP for growth, funding, and global competitiveness. By aligning with global IP standards and practices, the initiative is set to show new value across Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Webinar Marks the Beginning of the New Partnership The Webinar served as the formal launchpad for the National IP Management Clinics, which will officially roll out in September 2025. The online session introduced participants to Smart IP Management, through 5 key dimensions, including a focus on branding strategy and an introduction to the WIPO Madrid System. The workshop also gave a sneak peek into the upcoming clinic, designed to offer one-on-one IP diagnostics and hands-on guidance by IP and business experts. Attendees included startups, business owners, and entrepreneurs from across Qatar eager to learn how to protect and profit from their ideas. Unlike conventional workshops, the National IP Management Clinics will deliver tailored IP assessments for each SME, practical commercialization strategies and integration of IP into real-world business decisions, licensing, and scaling strategies. Applications for participation in the full National IP Management Clinics program are open ahead of the September launch. Selected SMEs will benefit froWebsite: Stay Connected: Engage with the QRDI Council on various social media channels to stay updated on the Council's latest activities and achievements.
Qatar Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
QRDI council concludes third Innovation Day at the Fifth Qatar Economic Forum
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council hosted its third consecutive Innovation Day, on the final day of the 5th Qatar Economic Forum. Innovation Day served as a dedicated platform featuring a dynamic lineup of expert panels, strategic discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at encouraging collaboration and advancing innovation. Omar Al Ansari, secretary general at QRDI Council, said: 'Innovation Day has become a staple of QRDI Council's efforts to encourage collaboration, spark dialogue, and drive forward Qatar's innovation agenda. This year's event highlighted the critical role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in shaping the future of industries and economies, not just in Qatar but globally. As we reflect on the outcomes of this year's Innovation Day, I am confident that the insights gained, and the partnerships made will play an important role in advancing our shared vision of a sustainable, innovation-driven future.' The Innovation Day began with an opening address by QRDI Council's Secretary General, Omar Al-Ansari, who reflected on last year's discussions surrounding the ethics of innovation, and how these questions remain highly relevant today; setting the tone for conversations that unfolded throughout the day. Throughout his address, he provided a broad perspective on the GCC region, emphasizing that innovation is not merely a concept but an active, operational reality. He highlighted Qatar's strong commitment to advancing innovation, driven by two key national frameworks: the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy. Whilst also outlining the role of the QRDI Council, noting that while the Council does not position itself as the sole hub of innovation, it serves as a strategic enabler and bridge, facilitating progress across sectors. Following a morning filled with engaging discussions and activities, the event transitioned into two breakout sessions: 'AI IRL: From Innovation to Application' and 'The Venture Capital Outlook'. Both sessions saw participants actively engaging in meaningful dialogue, networking opportunities, and the day's initiatives. Key topics included the future of biotech, explored in a conversation with James Flynn, Managing Partner at Deerfield, as well as AI in action, focusing on practical applications of innovation within the GCC region to drive impactful outcomes. Additionally, the future of AI in the region was explored during the session 'Qatar – Realizing AI's Potential Today', highlighting how Qatar's technology leaders are driving growth and connectivity through innovative applications. Innovation Day is a strategic initiative that reflects QRDI Council's dedication to advancing Qatar's National Vision 2030 and its National Development Strategy. By fostering collaboration, promoting advanced research, and exploring transformative technologies like AI and biotech, the event shows Qatar's commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy.
