Registration opens for Research and Innovation Authority's Upgrade programme

Muscat: The Research and Innovation Authority announced on Sunday the opening of registration for the ninth edition of Upgrade programme, which transforms student graduation projects into startup enterprises. The programme targets Omani citizens and residents in the Sultanate of Oman who are enrolled in higher education institutions (holding a university diploma or higher). The registration will continue until 30 July.

Through this edition, the programme seeks to build a knowledge-based economy by stimulating researchers and innovators, and supporting institutions in transforming student ideas into innovation-driven startups that generate added value and contribute to sustainable economic development.

The programme aims to disseminate a culture of research and empower project owners to achieve excellence in entrepreneurship. This, in turn, contributes to elevating the Sultanate of Oman's ranking in global indicators, while strengthening partnerships with the private sector to provide diverse and strategically sustainable funding sources that ensure the growth and market sustainability of these enterprises.

The current edition features competition across three tracks, selected to align with the requirements of scientific advancement and the applications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Emerging Technologies, Water, and Financial Technologies.

The launch of this edition builds upon the significant success and broad competition witnessed in previous cycles. In the 2025 cycle, the number of competitors reached 202 participants, of whom 11 projects successfully secured programme  incentives and dedicated support.

The winning teams in the current edition will receive a comprehensive support and development package, including incubation and specialised training in startup development, alongside the refinement of their leadership and professional skills to ensure the success of their projects.

Regarding participation criteria, the programme requires that applicants be students in their final academic year at an academic institution, or graduates of academic institutions who have completed their studies no more than two years prior to the date of graduation certification. The regulations further stipulate that each participant may submit only one application, with membership limited to a single project to ensure equal opportunities and focus on the quality of submitted ideas.