SHIFT Group and QDB Host 'The Founders Meetup' to Boost MENA Startups

Doha, Qatar – SHIFT Group, in collaboration with Qatar Development Bank (QDB), successfully hosted "The Founders Meetup" on May 8, 2025, at the Mondrian Hotel Doha. The event convened startup founders, investors, and innovation leaders from across the MENA region, aiming to enhance the startup ecosystem and accelerate early-stage ventures.

Event Overview

The gathering featured 17 startups from sectors including construction, health tech, e-commerce, food tech, insurance, logistics, fintech, and property tech. These startups, ranging from pre-seed to seed stages, presented their ideas directly to investors and venture capitalists. The event was organized in collaboration with Consulting Haus, PLUS.VC, Vision Ventures, and Pamoja Ventures.

Program Highlights

The event commenced with opening remarks from SHIFT Group's CEO, Joy Alvarez, followed by a keynote address from Mohammed Al-Emadi, Executive Director of Investment and Incubation at QDB. Startups delivered their pitches in two sessions, separated by a networking coffee break. Attendees could scan QR codes to connect with startups of interest, facilitating real-time interactions. The event concluded with a dinner, providing further networking opportunities.

Strategic Objectives

Qatar Development Bank continues to support innovation and the growth of the venture capital space, aiming to position Qatar as a leading hub for startups and VC activity in the region. Similarly, SHIFT Group actively invests in regional VC partners and plays a hands-on role in creating opportunities for collaboration and growth, with a focus on enhancing the VC sector in Qatar.

Future Outlook

The Founders Meetup represents a significant step toward building a more connected and opportunity-rich startup ecosystem across the MENA region, aligning with Qatar's broader goals of economic diversification and innovation.