Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference Kicks Off

Doha, Qatar- Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) launched the Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference and Arab SMEs Summit 2024. Held under the theme "Navigating Digital Horizons," the event commenced at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center on the 18th of November and is set to run for three days.

The conference, now in its 10th edition alongside the 3rd Arab SMEs Summit, has brought together over 120 startups, 600 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and more than 5,000 visitors. It serves as a key platform for knowledge exchange and the promotion of entrepreneurship and sustainable development across the Arab region.

The event was inaugurated by HE Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai and attended by a host of dignitaries, including Dr. Rola Dashti, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCWA, and HRH Abdulaziz bin Talal Al-Saud, Chairman of the Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND). Arab ministers of commerce, industry, and finance, along with senior officials and representatives of strategic partners, were also present.

QDB emphasized that the conference reflects Qatar's commitment to becoming a leading regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in alignment with the country's Third National Development Strategy. This year's expanded edition features a dynamic lineup of activities, including investment opportunities, training sessions, and policy discussions aimed at fostering digital innovation and supporting the growth of sustainable economies.

The first day of the conference showcased workshops, discussions, and an exhibition featuring over 120 innovative startups from the Arab region. Attendees explored cutting-edge solutions presented by entrepreneurs and engaged with investors and potential partners.

On the second day, the Sixth Investment Forum will highlight investment opportunities and connect startups with experts and investors. Additionally, site visits to leading hubs within Qatar's entrepreneurship ecosystem are planned to provide participants with insights into the country's thriving entrepreneurial landscape.

The Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference and Arab SMEs Summit 2024 reinforce Qatar's role in promoting a culture of innovation and equipping Arab entrepreneurs and SMEs with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.