Muscat – The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation has announced the launch of registration for the 8th edition of the Upgrade Programme, an initiative that transforms outstanding graduation projects into successful startup companies.

Open to Omani and resident students from higher education institutions (university diploma and above), the registration is open till May 31, encouraging young innovators to turn their ideas into market-ready businesses.

The latest edition includes three specialised competition themes: Emerging Technologies, Water Innovation, and Financial Technologies.

Participants will benefit from comprehensive incubation, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with the necessary tools to establish and sustain successful startups.

The initiative also aims to enhance Oman’s knowledge-based economy and improve its ranking in global innovation indices.

Students in their final academic year or graduates within the past two years are eligible to apply. All applications must be submitted electronically via the Oman Research Portal in Arabic or English before the deadline. Each participant can submit only one project, and late or non-electronic submissions will not be considered. Under the supervision of MoHERI, the programme will be held in partnership with Omantel, Nama Water Services, Daleel Petroleum, Industrial Innovation Academy, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Public Authority for SME Development, Central Bank of Oman, and National Bank of Oman.