In the interest of regionally advancing local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship in Qatar, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) is sponsoring local entrepreneurs, currently incubated at Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC) at the 36th GITEX Technology Week 2016 conference and exhibition.
The expo is currently taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This year’s 36thGITEX Technology Week conference and exhibition spans over a course of five days, from 16 to October 20. It is amongst one of the world's largest events that draws together tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, exhibitors and investors from information and communications technology (ICT) sectors globally. The conference presents participants with an opportunity to network with specialized international companies, share information and keep abreast of the latest developments in the field of science and technology.
QDB’s decision to sponsor SMEs incubated at QBIC is consistent with the development agency’s strategy to open business prospects for local entrepreneurs and globally expand the outreach of Qatari businesses. Furthermore, by promoting the incubated businesses abroad, QDB seeks to expand the knowledge base of local technology companies, attain first-hand knowledge of the competition in the global tech market and contribute to a knowledge-based diversified economy.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), QDB, Abdulaziz bin Nasser al-Khalifa said: "By sponsoring local companies abroad, we, at QDB, seek to contribute to the achievement of the national vision of the State of Qatar. By sponsoring our SMEs in large conventions like 36th GITEX Technology Week, we seek to motivate local entrepreneurs and support their growth as they engage with other creative technology companies abroad, broaden their professional networks and build a quality of technological services that is on par with top international standards.”
He added: "QDB is interested in participating in all local, regional and international events that support the growth of SMEs. It is our firm belief that events such as these empower our local companies by equipping them with the leverage of international exposure – the successes of other software and technology companies abroad serve as a positive example to Qatari tech-based SMEs.”
Aysha Al Mudahka, QBIC CEO said: "I'm delighted to be taking part in this prominent and distinguished convention. Technology is a huge part of our everyday life and plays a main role in the success of any startup. Addressing the role of women in technology is crucial to the development of the tech scene in the region, especially since the participation of women in the workforce has increased significantly over the last few years alone. By supporting the expansion of women's roles in the tech and entrepreneurship industry, it could have an immediate and positive effect on the private sector, as well as enhance the perception of women in the tech industry."
She added: "I'm proud that four of QBIC's very own startups are present at this convention, and with the continued support from QDB, we were able to showcase our incubatees' innovations locally as well as regionally. I'm positive that more of QBIC's successful startups will be taking part in GITEX in the upcoming years."
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