Oman's OQX Celebrates Graduation of First Accelerator Cohort, Signs Key Deal with ITHCA
OQX, the research, development, and innovation arm of Oman's OQ Group, has celebrated a major milestone with the graduation of the first cohort from its business accelerator programme. The event saw thirteen startups take the stage to present their innovative solutions to a panel of energy and entrepreneurship experts from Oman and abroad.
By the Numbers
13: Startups graduated from the first cohort.
4: Key sectors represented (Sustainable energy, clean tech, AI, energy asset optimisation).
17: Countries where parent company OQ has operations.
Showcasing Innovation in Energy and Technology
The graduating startups showcased a bold vision for a smarter, greener future, with ventures spanning sustainable energy, clean tech, artificial intelligence, and energy asset optimisation. The event successfully drew interest from a wide range of investors from across Oman, Europe, Asia, and South America, providing a powerful platform for cross-border collaboration and investment.
Strategic Partnership to Commercialise Innovation
A key highlight of the graduation event was the signing of a strategic agreement between OQX and ITHCA Group. This partnership is designed to support the commercialisation of the accelerator's outcomes by connecting the participating startups with crucial funding opportunities and other ecosystem initiatives, strengthening their path to market success. The agreement was signed by Dr. Ammar Mohammed al Ojaili, Vice President of Innovation at OQ, and Maha bint Mohammed al Balushi, Group Director at ITHCA.
Leadership on Building Oman's Tech Ecosystem
Dr. Ojaili noted that the graduation marks a pivotal moment, stating it is "proof of the programme’s impact on launching startups that offer real, scalable solutions for the energy sector.” Echoing this sentiment, Maha al Balushi said, “Our partnership with OQ reflects ITHCA’s commitment to nurturing Oman’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. By aligning innovation with market demand, we believe we can unlock new opportunities in ICT and related sectors.”
About the Key Partners
OQX & OQ Group: OQX is the R&D and innovation arm of OQ, a global integrated energy investment group rooted in Oman with operations across the entire energy value chain in 17 countries.
ITHCA Group: A key Omani entity committed to developing the Sultanate's entrepreneurship ecosystem, with a focus on nurturing opportunities in ICT and related technology sectors.
Looking Ahead
The OQX accelerator is a core part of OQ's broader commitment to developing a dynamic, private sector-driven innovative economy in Oman. By guiding high-impact startups from the idea stage to implementation, the program aims to foster ventures that will contribute significantly to the nation's sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
Source: Muscat Daily