Qatar and Germany have launched DEEP Qatar, a university affiliated deep technology innovation hub in Doha. The initiative aims to support science led startups and turn research into scalable companies. It focuses on artificial intelligence, health, food technology, and agriculture. The partnership reflects a shared ambition to build global innovation bridges and strengthen deeptech ecosystems.
A Strategic Partnership for Deep Technology
DEEP Qatar is the result of a collaboration between leading institutions from both countries. The partners include the European School of Management and Technology in Berlin through DEEP Institute for Deep Tech Innovation, the Qatar Investment Authority, and the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Council.
The partnership aims to:
- Strengthen research and innovation links between Qatar and Germany
- Support entrepreneurship and technology transfer
- Align innovation efforts with national priorities
- Encourage private sector led research
The hub builds on ESMT’s long standing presence in Qatar. Executive education programs have run in collaboration with the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies since 2018.
QRDI’s Role in Shaping the Ecosystem
QRDI will guide the initiative to ensure strong alignment with Qatar’s innovation goals. The council will focus on building a sustainable and impact driven ecosystem.
QRDI’s objectives include:
- Accelerating commercialization of scientific research
- Attracting global deeptech companies
- Supporting local and regional startups
- Strengthening Qatar’s global innovation role
QRDI leadership views DEEP Qatar as a catalyst for long term economic growth and global relevance.
Three Integrated Programs Driving Impact
DEEP Qatar will operate through three connected pillars. Each pillar plays a specific role in startup development and ecosystem growth.
The three pillars include:
- Creative Destruction Lab Doha
- DEEP Academy
- DEEP Pioneers
Each program will support around 20 ventures every year. Over three years, the hub aims to back more than 150 projects. These projects will benefit from mentors, investors, founders, and researchers from Doha and Berlin.
Creative Destruction Lab Comes to the Region
Creative Destruction Lab Doha marks the first CDL presence in the GCC and Asia. The lab will run focused programs in priority sectors.
These sectors include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Health technologies
- Agriculture innovation
- Food technology
The Qatar Investment Authority will fund the lab through its Fund of Funds Program. The program aims to attract regional and global investors and close funding gaps faced by startups.
Building Talent and Commercial Leaders
DEEP Academy will train scientists and researchers from Qatar and the GCC. The goal is to build entrepreneurial skills and commercial confidence. Participants will learn how to turn research into viable companies.
DEEP Pioneers will identify high potential technologies inside Qatari research institutions. It will pair them with experienced founders to build strong leadership teams. This approach increases the chances of global success.
DEEP Qatar represents a major step forward. It connects research, capital, and talent. It positions Doha as a deeptech hub with global reach.