Qatar Development Bank

Overview

Established in 1997, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) is a government-backed financial institution dedicated to fostering the growth and diversification of Qatar's economy. The bank offers a range of financial services, including direct financing, equity investments, and advisory support, targeting sectors such as industry, tourism, education, healthcare, agriculture, and fisheries. QDB's investment strategy focuses on supporting Qatari startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), aiming to elevate them from ideation to global export markets. Through its various programs, QDB has invested nearly 130 million Qatari Riyals in startups to date, with a significant portion allocated to innovative small enterprises and growing medium enterprises. The bank's commitment to economic diversification aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, emphasizing the development of a knowledge-based economy. QDB's initiatives, such as the Co-Investment Program, encourage private-sector investment by partnering with individual investors and institutions to co-invest in early-stage startups and SMEs. This collaborative approach aims to stimulate high-growth industries within Qatar and increase private sector interest in venture capital investments. Additionally, QDB has been actively involved in supporting the venture capital landscape in Qatar, with its investment portfolio contributing to the creation of over 825 high-skill jobs, marking a 38% growth from the previous year. The bank's efforts have positioned Qatar among the top five most active countries in the Middle East and North Africa in terms of venture capital deals, accounting for 6% of total deals in the region. Through its comprehensive suite of financial and advisory services, Qatar Development Bank continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Qatar's economic development and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Investment Focus

• Qatari ownership
• Active involvement of Qataris in management
• Preference for strategic sectors (excluding construction, contracting, and trade)
• Target shareholding of less than 50%
• Equity buy-back option with predetermined conditions for entrepreneur to buy it back from the program

Portfolio Companies