SEAT Global Magazine - Exclusive Interviews of Global Sport Executive Issue 05 June/July 2017 Special Edition | Page 7

The QIC will prioritise home-grown innovations and create an enabling environment, including effective stakeholder collaboration. The initiative has four strategic goals:

1. Contribute to Qatar’s socioeconomic development plans through the identification and commercialisation of new businesses.

2. Enhance the Qatari brand through innovative solutions in key sectors, including sport and event management industries.

3. Establish effective enabling mechanisms to support innovation across Qatar.

4. Establish an effective stakeholder collaboration framework to enhance Qatar’s innovation ecosystem.

HE Mr Al Thawadi said: “Innovation has been at the heart of our work, from the moment Qatar decided to bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Our compact tournament plans, modular stadiums and ambitious legacy initiatives show that innovation is embedded within everything we do."

“Launching Qatar Innovation Community is the next step for the SC and our stakeholders. It shows we’re serious about laying a foundation for our country’s brightest minds to formulate ideas that will make a difference to Qatar, the region and the world."

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Ministry of Transport and Communication for its support, along with all our stakeholders. These are exciting times for Qatar and initiatives such as this are the facilitators for a bright future.”

Mrs Al Mansoori said: “The formation of Qatar Innovation Community will support our vision of implementing smart technologies across the country and region.

“Qatar is committed to providing the very best innovation infrastructure for both public and private stakeholders, and the QIC will be the flag bearer for ensuring our country remains a hub for new ideas, invention and ground-breaking technology.”

Dr Al Ibrahim said: “Qatar Innovation Community ties in perfectly with QSTP’s vision to become an international hub for scientific and technology innovation, tech-based entrepreneurship and high-tech businesses."

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