Paris: Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has been awarded the prestigious Startup Ecosystem Star (SES) 2025 Award by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Mind the Bridge. The award acknowledges institutions that have shown exceptional leadership and sustained impact in fostering innovation ecosystems on a global scale.

According to Qatar News Agency, the award ceremony took place at the ICC headquarters in Paris, in collaboration with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the European Commission. QDB's achievements were recognized across three key categories: Best-in-class Startup Programs, Outstanding Investment Boost, and Exceptional Industry Support.

QDB released a statement on Tuesday emphasizing that the recognition underscores the bank's holistic strategy in creating a nurturing and competitive environment for startups. This includes providing comprehensive support ranging from training and advisory services to incubation and acceleration programs. The statement also highlighted QDB's influential role in enhancing the venture capital landscape by attracting both local and international investments.

Furthermore, the statement elaborated on QDB's efforts in promoting the private sector's role, supporting exports, and fostering the growth of the national industrial sector. This is achieved through close partnerships with various stakeholders across Qatar, further solidifying the bank's position as a key innovator within the global entrepreneurship ecosystem.