Muscat – University of Technology and Applied Sciences Muscat will host ‘Startup Weekend’ from April 17 to 19, bringing together students, entrepreneurs and industry professionals for a 54-hour entrepreneurship boot camp.

Held in collaboration with Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development and startup accelerator Techstars, the event is part of efforts to help young innovators convert business ideas into viable ventures. It supports the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by strengthening links between academia and industry, and building a knowledge-driven economy.

Over three days, participants will develop ideas, build prototypes and present their projects to a panel of investors, mentors and judges. The programme is designed to foster entrepreneurial thinking and provide hands-on business development experience.

Juhaina bint Hamoud al Eisriya, Head of Partnership and Entrepreneurship Department at the university, described the event as a practical approach to education and innovation. “The programme will focus on practical learning, mentoring, business model development and creating real solutions for real-world challenges,” she said.

Esraa bint Salim al Ajmiya, Head of Innovation and Technology Transfer, said the boot camp also aims to connect startups with funding bodies. “We aspire to link entrepreneurial ideas generated during the programme with real market opportunities through sustained support and open communication channels with investors and funding institutions.”

Dr Badr bin Khalid al Shibeebi, Deputy Assistant Vice Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research, added, “We hope the outcomes of this event will serve as a true launchpad for innovative startups that contribute to economic diversification and enhance Oman’s competitiveness in innovation and technology.”

The event will focus on challenges in education, healthcare, the economy and technology. Around 100 to 120 participants are expected to attend.