Application Deadline: 31 October 2026.
Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 WISE Edtech Accelerator Programme. Since its inception, the WISE EdTech Accelerator has supported edtech founders from around the world in building and scaling innovative solutions to key challenges in education. Each year, WISE delivers a bespoke program that supports startup growth through one-to-one coaching, masterclasses with industry experts, and access to a global network of investors and education specialists.
Local Track (Qatar-Focused)
in collaboration with local partners, including Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), Qatar Development Research Institute (QRDI), and others.
Unlock Your edtech Startup’s Potential in Qatar’s Thriving Education Ecosystem
The Local Track of the WISE EdTech Accelerator is designed for early stage startups (seed to pre-series A), ready to scale and enter the Qatari market. This track provides unparalleled access to Qatar’s rapidly growing education sector, offering you the opportunity to Get quick access to local funding and grants via our partners.
Receive mentorship
From top industry experts and local innovators to tailor your product for the Qatari market
International Track
Scale Your edtech Solution | Globally with the Support of a World-Class Accelerator
The International Track of the WISE EdTech Accelerator welcomes innovative, early stage startups (seed to pre-series A), from across the globe, offering an exciting opportunity to scale without the need to focus on any specific market. Each startup will receive tailored support, including
Leverage our global network: Of mentors, investors, and educational leaders to drive your product’s international growth.
Target Startup Profile
Stage
Startups beyond the MVP stage, with evidence of traction and sales. Typically, ventures are early stage (seed to pre-series A), having raised less than $500,000
Geography
The Accelerator is agnostic to geography, with past cohorts including ventures from both developed and developing countries.
Impact
Startups must show proven traction and measurable impact within their operating markets. Impact is a key consideration in the selection process.
Business Model
The Accelerator targets for-profit ventures (NGOs and nonprofits are not eligible).
Sub-sectors
Ventures from a variety of educational subsectors, including K12, higher education, and professional development, are eligible.
Team
Preference for ventures with co-founders, as this promotes broader engagement across different areas of support.
Program Benefits
Global Network
Some benefits of joining our WISE global network include
- Access to an extensive network of investors and education specialists
- International visibility through partner events and the WISE Summit
- Become part of a community of edtech founders from 22 countries
- Coaching & Mentorship
- A hand-picked team of experts specializing in Marketing, sales & fundraising
- Product strategy, development and roadmapping
- Market insights and positioning
- International Visibility
- Selected ventures will have the opportunity to attend our international events and promotion on our global platforms including
- Global events such as IFC Global Education Conference, Web Summit Qatar, London EdTech Week, and more.
- WISE social media platforms
- WISE Summit in Doha, convening over 4,000 attendees from 100 countries
Application Timeline:
Call for Applications Opens
28 September 2026
Full communications and outreach campaign begins. Open webinars held for prospective applicants throughout the CFA period. Applications submitted through the WISE application platform.
Applications Close
31 October 2026
Hard deadline — no submissions are accepted after this date.
Review & Selection Process
November – December 2026
WISE team conducts initial screening and eligibility review. A selection committee composed of leading experts in education and entrepreneurship reviews applications against the published criteria. Shortlisted applicants are invited for interviews.
Cohort Announcement
December 2026 / Early January 2027
4–6 selected startups are announced publicly. Notification of successful and unsuccessful applicants.
Program Begins
January 2027
Selected startups join the Accelerator program. Onboarding, initial mentorship matching, and program kick-off.
Accelerator Program
January – December 2027
Year-long bespoke program: 1-to-1 coaching, masterclasses with industry experts, and access to the global WISE network and international events. Startups are promoted across WISE platforms.
WISE 13 Summit Participation
Q4 2027
Accelerator cohort presents at the WISE 13 Summit in Doha. Visibility to 4,000+ attendees from 100 countries.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the WISE Edtech Accelerator Programme
