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Doha - Qatar (March 11, 2015)
The Digital Incubation Center (DIC) at the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ictQATAR) yesterday hosted an information session for the local ICT community and potential applicants to the Center. This session was the first in a series of four as the Center is now welcoming new applications from Doha-based entrepreneurs interested in taking their tech ideas to the next level.
Held at the DIC's offices, today's session featured two of the Center's mentors and experts from Vodafone Qatar on the topics of digital transformation and e-commerce. Speaking about digitization and start-ups, Simone Eliantonio, Head of Innovation and Strategic Projects at Vodafone Qatar explored how the adoption of digital enablers can help entrepreneurs maximize their efforts. Eliantonio gave some examples of how growing businesses can thrive when supported by digital solutions in areas such as marketing, outreach, customer analytics, and operations, as well as in future market expansion.
George Galica, Head of Enterprise Managed Services, of Vodafone Qatar, discussed e-commerce innovations in the context of Qatar. Whether start-ups choose to open their doors to customers exclusively via an online store, or to supplement traditional retail channels, there are multiple profitable opportunities for businesses to explore.
DIC's information sessions represent the Center's commitment to continuing collaboration with a wide network of partners to further support young entrepreneurs and start-ups to create momentum and advance their businesses -- from starting up to scaling up in order to achieve real market success. The DIC's partnership with Vodafone Qatar reflects a shared vision, as both organizations believe that technology and digital transformation are ways to improve the well-being of the people in Qatar and part of a wider scope of work with the DIC.
The DIC offers expertise and professional guidance in the fields of technology and business. Services include access to space, business planning, education and training, mentors, and legal advice, among others throughout the phases of the start-up development. The Center also offers potential funding through Qatar Development Bank (QDB), and other financial institutions.
The Center's program has two tracks: the Launchpad, a 6-month track that helps entrepreneurs nurture their ICT ideas and turn them into business opportunities; and the 2-year Start-up track for early stage start- that need help in accelerating the development of their business.
The second information session will be held on March 17, 2015 from 4:30 pm - 6 pm at the DIC offices. Shihaz Abdulla from Microsoft Qatar will talk about cloud computing, and Hamid Sadiq, Department Manager at Qatar Computer Emergency Response Team at ictQATAR will address the topic of cyber security.
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This current round of applications is currently open until March 31, 2015. For further information and to apply, visit www.ictqatar.qa/en/dic or call 4499 4654. #####
ABOUT ictQATAR
The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ictQATAR) builds a vibrant, advanced, and secure ICT sector that will propel a thriving, diversified economy and benefit all the people of Qatar. As a change agent for human, social, economic, and environmental progress, the Ministry strives to drive innovation well into the future. Specifically, it is charged with a wide-ranging mandate that includes: overseeing and developing the communications sector, e-government programs and postal services; fostering a regulatory environment that is conducive to competition and investment; promoting digital inclusion for all people of Qatar; and developing the next generation of infrastructure.
© Press Release 2015
