MIJHAR Program

The HBKU MIJHAR Program is a specialized 6-month training program that is designed for HBKU researchers who are inspired to take their research outcomes from bench to marketplace and/or inspired to take the next step in their career and become tech entrepreneurs. The program takes into consideration the unique challenges faced during the creation of knowledge-intensive start-ups and commercialization of early-stage technologies.

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 HBKU Innovation Center is one of OIIR's initiatives toward strengthening a sustainable innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem within and outside of HBKU. The center focuses on nurturing a mindset of innovation and entrepreneurship among HBKU and QF members to support the cultivation of a community of innovation and entrepreneurship within HBKU and beyond and to help establish HBKU-grown startups. For guidelines, templates, and submissions, click here. For queries, contact innovation@hbku.edu.qa.

The HBKU Student Innovation Fund (SIF) provides students with funding and resources to transform their innovative ideas into commercially viable prototypes. It allows them to refine and enhance their entrepreneurial skills through practical application and experiential learning, equipping them with the expertise and mindset to potentially launch ventures that contribute to Qatar’s economic development.

The SIF offers two funding opportunities:

The HBKU Social Innovation Fund (SOCIF) accelerates the transformation of early-stage research and innovative ideas into impactful solutions that deliver measurable social value. It supports HBKU faculty, researchers, scientists, and staff across its academic and research institutes in partnering with profit and non-profit organizations to develop innovative solutions, products, business models, and policies addressing critical social challenges in Qatar and the region, fostering successful community adoption and driving meaningful societal improvement.

The HBKU Industrial Innovation Fund (IIF) accelerates the translation of early-stage research and industry-driven innovations into commercially viable, market-ready solutions. It supports HBKU faculty, researchers, scientists, and staff across its academic and research institutes in collaborating with industry partners to develop tangible solutions, pioneering products, and business models that address real-world challenges, align with local and regional priorities, and contribute to Qatar’s economic growth.

The IIF offers two funding opportunities:

HBKU is committed to nurturing innovative ideas that address real-world challenges and have high commercialization potential. If you have developed a new invention, concept, or technology, the Intellectual Property Office invites you to submit an Invention Disclosure. This is the first step toward protecting your intellectual property and exploring opportunities for commercialization.

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) offers tailored support for innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers by providing expert intellectual property (IP) management guidance. Whether you are developing cutting-edge technology, launching a start-up, or working on a high-impact research project, OIIR’s IP experts are here to assist.