Qatari Startup Drive Climate Tech with AlgaQ

Doha, Qatar – In the drive to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons and champion sustainable growth, an all-women Qatari biotech startup is making waves with innovations in carbon capture and bio-based solutions.

Founded in November 2024, AlgaQ has quickly emerged as a key player in Qatar’s sustainability ecosystem. The startup specializes in microalgae cultivation through smart photobioreactors, systems capable of capturing carbon dioxide at rates reported to be up to ten times faster than trees. The resulting biomass is converted into agricultural inputs, animal feed, and bio-materials with potential applications in pharmaceuticals, food, energy, and wastewater treatment.

Education and Outreach

Beyond technology, AlgaQ is prioritizing awareness. The company has introduced interactive bioreactor kits for schools and research institutions, enabling students to explore climate science hands-on. These kits also allow institutions to generate sustainable biomass for use in fertilizers, materials, and nutrition. Outreach programs, including DIY bioreactor workshops for youth, are being expanded across schools and community platforms.

Institutional Backing and Recognition

AlgaQ is currently incubated by Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) and supported by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). The team is also exploring collaborations with the Qatar Foundation and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, aiming to integrate microalgae solutions into the nation’s environmental agenda.

The company’s achievements have already drawn regional attention. AlgaQ received the Green-Tech/Sustainability Startup of the Year Award at the 2024 Qatar Entrepreneurship Award and has been featured on platforms including CNBC Arabia. Its solutions are already being deployed in educational institutions across the country.

Looking Ahead

Despite being less than a year old, AlgaQ has outlined bold ambitions. Plans are underway to establish a dedicated research center and a large-scale algae farm to scale cultivation and research. Global expansion is also on the horizon, with the team aiming for unicorn status within five years, following participation in high-profile events such as Web Summit.

A National Fit

AlgaQ’s mission aligns closely with Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes environmental sustainability and diversification beyond oil and gas. By turning emissions into valuable resources, the startup contributes to both climate goals and economic resilience.

As the global momentum toward circular economies accelerates, AlgaQ stands as a homegrown success story—demonstrating how innovation, sustainability, and female leadership can intersect to drive national and international impact.