Scale Now, a programme designed to support Qatari-founded technology companies in becoming global competitors, has secured $12.9 million in deals, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a key player in regional digital innovation. According to a presentation by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), this investment is split between $7.2 million in business-to-business (B2B) deals and $5.7 million in direct investments. The programme has also attracted four new partners: the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Invest Qatar, Qatar Development Bank (QDB), and the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council.
Scaling Qatar’s Digital Economy
The Scale Now programme, which has demonstrated its ability to generate significant market confidence, is more than just a business initiative. It functions as a national platform that aims to turn digital innovation into tangible economic results. The programme’s first cycle, Cycle 1, has already made notable strides, including securing $7.2 million in B2B transactions. These transactions signal robust market validation and confidence in Qatar’s growing scale-up ecosystem. Additionally, Cycle 1 resulted in $5.7 million in direct investments, combining private funding, grants, and strategic partnerships.
Cycle 1’s participants have shown promising growth, with companies reporting an average revenue increase of more than 50% and one successful international market expansion. The cohort included a diverse group of companies such as Mzad Qatar, a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform; SkipCash, which provides secure online payment solutions for businesses; and EMMA Systems, which offers airport software designed to enhance operational efficiency and data management.
Key Companies in the Programme
Several companies from Cycle 1 have demonstrated the potential of Qatar’s digital ecosystem. ADGS, for example, leverages artificial intelligence for behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance, while SPONIX provides immersive video solutions that enable real-time virtual advertising during live events. ClassTap offers a flexible platform for accessing over 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription model. These firms are proof of the diverse innovation fostered by Scale Now, catering to sectors ranging from digital payments to immersive media.
Supporting Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030
Scale Now plays a crucial role in supporting Qatar’s broader Digital Agenda 2030, which aims to create over 26,000 ICT jobs by 2030. By providing mentorship, investment readiness, and access to pilot opportunities, Scale Now helps companies translate proven success into sustainable growth. This focus on scaling up local businesses aligns with Qatar’s long-term goal of creating a more resilient economy with a strong export potential.
According to MCIT, Scale Now is helping position Qatar as a hub for digital innovation and expansion. The programme aims to support high-potential companies by facilitating access to funding and grants and connecting them to key government and private sector stakeholders. Invest Qatar, which acts as the gateway for foreign investors, is also playing a key role by supporting the programme and helping entrepreneurs navigate the business landscape in Qatar.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, Scale Now continues to be a vital component of Qatar’s digital economy. The programme not only supports the growth of Qatari technology companies but also contributes to job creation and enhances the country’s global competitiveness. As the programme continues to scale, more companies from Qatar and beyond will likely seek to benefit from the opportunities it offers. This initiative reflects Qatar’s commitment to building a resilient, innovative, and competitive economy.
For more on Qatar’s growing digital economy and its initiatives, you can also read about Hospitality Qatar 2025 and Invest Qatar.
