Through a combination of entrepreneurship supporting streams, Mada aims to provide a mechanism to bring relevant innovative Assistive Technologies, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Accessibility products and services to the local market and beyond by promoting innovation through the Center of Excellence powered by relevant sponsors and co-founders. This will enhance the lives of PWD in Qatar and the Arab world.
There are 5 types of supporting streams that fulfil the objectives of the Mada Innovation Program through offering funding/resource opportunities and/or expert advise. These streams can involve offering grants for individuals and entities with innovative products or services.
Following are the details for each stream:
a. Endorsement Program
This stream is targeted towards international/local established entities who already have a ready-to-market Assistive Technology solutions that requires endorsement to access a broader market and specific institutions in Qatar and the region through Mada. Successful endorsement of solutions is subject meeting strict criteria based on technical and end-user evaluations.
b. Direct Grants
This stream is designed for creating opportunities for new innovative entities who already have a “Proven Concept” for their AT product or service to establish themselves in the market. Applicants selected for this stream will be provided with a grant through MADA Innovation Program to develop the proposed product/service concept to cater towards the local and Arab market.
c. Competitions
This stream is designed for creating opportunities for innovators and entities to gather seed funding for their AT related product or service “Proof of Concept”. Applicants selected for this stream will be directed towards participating in dedicated AT and Accessibility segment developed within various partnering competitions.
d. Localization
This stream is targeted towards international established entities who already have an existing prototype for a potential idea relevant to Assistive Technology products/services who are looking into Arabic localization of their product. MADA will provide grant through MADA Innovation Program directly to potential established entities with relevant product/service concept to cater towards the local and Arab market.
e. Subject-Matter Expertise
This stream is designed for innovators and established entities that seeks subject-matter expertise as well as professional and end-user feedback to enhance and further improve their solutions prior to advancing to its next phase. This will ensure that the solution meets the needs of its targeted users and be market-ready for launch.
Additionally, Mada aims to work closely with financial institutions and incubation centers to support relevant innovators and entrepreneurs.