AI for Good Qatar Challenge Launched at Qatar Investment Conference
▼ Summary
– The AI for Good Qatar Challenge is a startup competition launching on November 3, 2025, in Doha as part of the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference.
– It will feature GCC-based pre-seed and seed-stage startups using AI to address global challenges aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
– Participating startups will present 3-minute pitches to expert judges and compete for mentorship, investor exposure, and integration into the UN innovation ecosystem, but no cash prize.
– The competition is organized by The Business Year and Msheireb Properties, with support from Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and international venture capital firms.
– This initiative aims to reinforce Qatar’s position as a regional hub for AI, innovation, and sustainable entrepreneurship by connecting startups with global networks and opportunities.
The AI for Good Qatar Challenge has officially launched, marking a significant initiative to spotlight startups using artificial intelligence to tackle global issues. This competition, introduced during the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference, will take place on November 3, 2025, at Barahat Msheireb in Doha. Organized by The Business Year alongside Msheireb Properties and AI for Good YAILs Qatar, the event focuses on early-stage GCC startups that apply AI solutions in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, emphasized the company’s dedication to innovation. He noted that Msheireb Downtown Doha provides a dynamic environment where groundbreaking ideas can develop into real-world solutions. Hosting the challenge at Barahat Msheireb supports emerging entrepreneurs who are leveraging advanced technology to promote regional sustainability and prosperity.
Vanessa Rameix, Regional Director at The Business Year, highlighted the competition’s role in linking Qatar’s startup community with international innovation networks. She explained that the event not only showcases leading AI-driven ventures but also connects them with essential resources like mentorship, funding, and strategic alliances to expand their influence throughout the Gulf and internationally.
Shortlisted startups will deliver live three-minute pitches in front of a judging panel, with assessments based on team expertise, technological innovation, business viability, social impact, and presentation skills. The winning team will be announced during the conference’s closing session.
Although no monetary award is provided, participants gain access to invaluable benefits. These include expert guidance, exposure to worldwide investors, integration within the UN’s innovation network, and extensive media coverage through official partners. Backed by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, as well as global venture capital firms such as Rasmal Ventures, Builders VC, The Alchemist, and Plug and Play, the competition offers pre-seed startups direct engagement with international funders. They also get to present their solutions to top-level executives and join global accelerator and mentorship programs.
The Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference, co-hosted by TBY and Msheireb Properties, acts as a premier gathering for policymakers, investors, and innovators across the Gulf. By featuring the AI for Good Qatar Challenge, the conference strengthens Qatar’s standing as a central hub for artificial intelligence, sustainable entrepreneurship, and digital advancement. Interested startups can submit their applications via the official website.
(Source: MEA Tech Watch)
