OQ Group launched the second cohort of its Business Accelerator Programme, comprising 22 specialised startups from within and outside of Oman.

This initiative falls within the framework of the Group's efforts to support innovation by connecting startups with operational and investment opportunities, and empowering them to develop technological, engineering, and environmental solutions in the fields of energy, sustainability, and advanced technologies, reported ONA.

The Business Accelerator Programme is one of the strategic programmes OQ Group relies on to enhance in-country value (ICV) and support the transition towards a more diversified and sustainable economy, achieving a long-term impact on both the energy sector and the national economy.

The participating companies in this cohort will focus on developing solutions in the fields of artificial intelligence, the smart economy, energy efficiency improvement, water desalination, corrosion management, and asset integrity; contributing to raising operational efficiency, enhancing sustainability, and addressing technical and operational challenges in the energy sector.

The second cohort witnessed a noticeable growth in the volume of applications and the level of competitiveness.

The programme received submissions from 49 countries.

Applications from within Oman constituted 81% of the total submissions, alongside international participation from the UK, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, reflecting the growing awareness of the programme and its enhanced stature as a global catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The selection process relied on a precise methodology focusing on the startups' readiness, scalability, and the strategic alignment with OQ's priorities.

OQ's Accelerator Programme provides an integrated platform for qualifying and enabling startups through a specialised training curriculum, technical and commercial mentorship, business development sessions, and capacity-building workshops.

The programme also provides access to sector experts, OQ's operational assets, real-world testing environments, as well as supporting companies in investment readiness, building scalable business models, and connecting them with networks of investors and strategic partners.