MUSCAT: The Authority for Research and Innovation (ARI) has extended the registration deadline for the ninth edition of the UpGrade Programme until August 15. This offers university students and recent graduates more time to apply for one of Oman’s leading entrepreneurship initiatives aimed at transforming graduation projects into viable start-ups.
The extension reflects ARI’s efforts to encourage wider participation and enable more young innovators to benefit from the programme’s incubation, mentorship and business development support. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application by helping participants turn innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
The programme is open to Omanis and residents enrolled in higher education institutions, including diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Graduates who completed their studies within the past two years are also eligible to apply, allowing them to further develop promising graduation projects into market-ready ventures.
The ninth edition features three strategic tracks aligned with Oman’s development priorities: Emerging Technologies, Water, and Financial Technologies (FinTech).
The Emerging Technologies track supports innovative solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, cloud computing, robotics and advanced digital technologies contributing to economic diversification and digital transformation.
The Water track focuses on solutions addressing water management, conservation, treatment and sustainability challenges, while encouraging technologies that enhance efficiency and strengthen environmental resilience.
The FinTech track aims to support innovations in digital financial services, electronic payments, cybersecurity and other technologies contributing to the growth of Oman’s financial sector.
Supervised by ARI, the programme forms part of national efforts to strengthen Oman’s innovation ecosystem and promote entrepreneurship among young people. Participants will receive technical guidance, specialised training, mentorship, business advisory services, prototype development support and incubation opportunities.
The initiative is supported by key partners representing each track, with Omantel as the strategic partner for Emerging Technologies, Nama Water Services supporting the Water track, and National Bank of Oman backing the FinTech track.
The programme is implemented through a strategic partnership involving the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MoCSY), the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Riyada).
Over the years, UpGrade has supported several student-led projects that have evolved into start-ups across different sectors. The programme continues to strengthen the connection between higher education outcomes and market needs while encouraging youth entrepreneurship in line with Oman Vision 2040.
By extending the deadline, ARI aims to attract a wider range of innovative ideas and provide aspiring entrepreneurs with more time to submit competitive applications.
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