Qatar is set to host its inaugural Social Innovation Forum and Awards 2025 on December 2, a major event aimed at advancing social development and collaboration in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. The forum, organised by the NAMA Center, an affiliate of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, will be held under the patronage of the Minister of Social Development and Family, HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi.
Forum Objectives and Significance
The Social Innovation Forum will act as a national platform for collaboration, bringing together a diverse range of social innovators, entrepreneurs, experts, and policymakers from both local and international communities. It seeks to foster an integrated ecosystem that supports sustainable and innovative social development, which is a central aspect of Qatar’s long-term vision for growth. Organisers hope that this initiative will play a pivotal role in driving forward Qatar’s social sector by promoting new ideas and partnerships that contribute to societal betterment.
In addition to the forum, the event will feature the launch of the second edition of the Social Entrepreneurship Award. This prestigious award recognises individuals and initiatives that have effectively turned social impact ideas into tangible solutions addressing critical challenges. The award has three categories: Best Established Social Impact Project (QR 200,000), Best Social Entrepreneurship Idea (QR 100,000), and High School Projects (QR 60,000, split equally between male and female students).
Applications for the award can be submitted through the NAMA Center’s official website and social media platforms.
A Turning Point for Qatar’s Social Sector
NAMA Executive Director Ghanem Salah Al Ali highlighted the importance of the forum, calling it a turning point in the evolution of Qatar’s social sector. He described it as a platform that will not only transform ideas into actionable initiatives but also strengthen community partnerships. Al Ali added that the forum will be instrumental in building a modern, inclusive, and sustainable social sector that aligns with Qatar’s development goals.
Nayef Zamel Al Shahrani, NAMA’s Director of Communications and Media, stressed the critical role of empowering social innovators. He noted that the forum will provide innovators and entrepreneurs with new opportunities to collaborate and bring their ideas to life. Al Shahrani emphasised the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in social innovation, stating, “Investing in people is the most certain path to a stronger and better future.”
Advancing Cooperation for Greater Impact
The forum also represents a significant step in enhancing cooperation between key sectors, including government, the private sector, academia, and civil society. This collaboration aims to expand the impact of social initiatives and contribute to a more dynamic and effective social work environment in Qatar.
The event aligns with ongoing efforts to empower the next generation of social entrepreneurs, particularly among Qatar’s youth. For instance, similar initiatives, such as the Qatar Foundation’s hackathon events, focus on inspiring students to turn their innovative ideas into practical solutions. These events highlight Qatar’s growing commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in areas related to sustainable development.
The Social Innovation Forum is expected to catalyse future efforts in shaping a social sector that can effectively respond to the evolving challenges of the country, while contributing to its broader socio-economic goals.
For more details on Qatar’s ongoing efforts to support social development, see how Qatar Foundation empowers students to transform ideas into innovative solutions.
This event also reflects Qatar’s broader vision of involving the youth in green entrepreneurship and national progress, as seen in other related initiatives like Empowering Qatar’s Youth through Green Entrepreneurship for National Progress.