Q Life Magazine Q Magazine June 2017 | Page 30

| Issue 2 Starting-up in Doha Encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit and supporting young businessmen and women is a key component of the Qatar National Vision. S tartup Weekend UNI Doha, which took place between 13 and 15 October 2016, is a prime example of how Qatar’s institutions are investing in the next generation by supporting and mentoring aspiring students. This particular event – a collaboration between the Qatar Development Bank, QSTP, INJAZ Qatar and Hamad Bin Khalifa University – saw 40 participants from across Qatar form teams to develop viable business ideas, before pitching them to veteran entrepreneurs and experts. | Entrepreneurs Each team was guided by a specialist, who helped participants to test and develop their ideas and prepare for the final presentations to a panel of judges. The panel consisted of representatives from each of the four host partners, and the teams’ ideas were judged on their innovativeness, creativity, and viability. Prizes of QAR25,000, QAR15,000 and QAR5,000 were awarded to the top three ideas. The winners, from Georgetown University in Qatar, created a prototype for an e-commerce website called AhlanGifts.com, specialising in Arabian-themed gifts such as fragrances like oud and bukhoor. The idea simplifies the gift-buying experience, and expands Arab- themed gifts to a new audience. 30