Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), in partnership with Merck, has officially launched the QSTP × Merck FemTech Accelerator, marking a major push to advance innovation in women’s healthcare.
The programme launched in April, where selected founders and applicants gathered to begin their accelerator journey. During the session, organisers outlined the programme structure, selection criteria, and key milestones. They also highlighted a strong focus on delivering measurable impact in women’s health.
Strong global response reflects rising urgency in FemTech
The accelerator has drawn significant international interest. It received 240 applications from 47 countries, including 24 submissions from Qatar. Notably, female-led startups made up 71% of total applicants, underscoring growing participation from women entrepreneurs.
According to QSTP President Rama Chakaki, the response signals both urgency and opportunity in the sector. She noted that founders are increasingly building solutions across critical healthcare gaps. Moreover, the diversity of applications reflects a broad and evolving FemTech landscape.
Startups target wide spectrum of women’s health challenges
Applicants covered several high-impact areas. These include reproductive health, fertility solutions, and maternal care. In addition, startups are working on diagnostics, biomarkers, and cancer screening technologies.
Other focus areas include mental health, hormonal disorders, autoimmune conditions, and digital health platforms. Many founders are also developing medical devices to improve access and outcomes. As a result, the programme brings together solutions that address both clinical and accessibility challenges.
Two-phase programme to drive real-world validation
The accelerator will begin with an intensive first phase involving 40 selected founders. Participants will attend workshops and expert-led sessions focused on digital health, business models, and commercialisation strategies.
Next, a smaller group will advance to the second phase. Here, startups will develop and validate pilot projects. They will also collaborate with regional partners to test solutions in real-world environments.
Programme Director Hayfa Al Abdulla emphasised the importance of this stage. She stated that the programme aims to connect founders with leading institutions. This approach ensures practical testing in markets where healthcare gaps remain significant.
Strategic step for Qatar’s innovation ecosystem
Importantly, this marks QSTP’s first multi-country accelerator. It strengthens Qatar’s position as a hub for global innovation and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, the initiative builds stronger links between international startups and Qatar’s growing research ecosystem. It also supports scalable solutions that can expand across regional and global markets.
As FemTech continues to gain momentum, the QSTP × Merck Accelerator positions Qatar at the forefront of innovation in women’s health.
