Rapid Innovation Accelerator programme to address COVID-19 challenges in Oman

Rapid Innovation Accelerator programme to address COVID-19 challenges in Oman

Muscat: Al Jabr, an Omani company focusing on startup development and corporate innovation has launched the Rapid Innovation Accelerator programme in partnership with the United Kingdom's innovation centre and co-working space, Plexal. This virtual-first, six-week programme will connect digital innovators in Oman with counterparts in the UK to help them in developing technology-led solutions and overcoming challenges posed by COVID-19. Al Jabr and Plexal's innovation team analysed the impact of COVID-19 on Omani society and businesses earlier in 2020 and the response to the pandemic from UK startups, to design the Rapid Innovation Accelerator. It has selected mentors from across Oman and the UK to support Omani entrepreneurs through a bespoke educational programme that includes workshops and mentoring. Mohammed Al Wahaibi, CEO of Al Jabr, commented, "The past year has shown us more than ever how important startups are in pushing things forward. How can a single idea - if supported - solve a major problem? During the pandemic, we have witnessed how much we have in common across the world. We shared similar challenges and now, we must learn how to solve them together. We are proud of the partnership with the UK-Oman Digital Hub, Plexal and Imperial College