September 19, 2025
Article
Cure by Deerfield Launches Middle East Health Accelerator in Qatar
Overview
Cure has opened applications for its new Middle East Health Accelerator, offering startups the chance to scale in Qatar, across the Middle East/North Africa region, and globally through an intensive program that combines education, mentorship, and investor exposure.
Cure is expanding its global footprint with the launch of the Cure by Deerfield Middle East Health Accelerator in Qatar. The program is now accepting applications from healthcare entrepreneurs worldwide who are open to doing business in Qatar, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and beyond.
“At Cure, our mission is to accelerate healthcare innovation by empowering entrepreneurs to take innovative ideas from concept to cure globally,” said Seema Kumar, CEO of Cure. “The Cure by Deerfield Middle East Health Accelerator is an extension of that vision—equipping founders with the education, networks, mentorship, and investor visibility needed to transform promising ideas into real-world health solutions, commercialize faster and at greater scale for patients in Qatar, across MENA, and around the globe.”
Inside the Accelerator’s Program
The accelerator will admit up to 15 startup teams into a 12-week hybrid program with sessions in Doha and New York City, as well as online resources.
Entrepreneurs will gain practical guidance from experts on topics including business models, fundraising, valuations, negotiating, operations, and go-to-market strategies. The program will officially kick off at Cure’s flagship event, The X Factor: Healthcare Innovation Summit, taking place Nov. 11 to 13 in New York City.
The program will culminate in a pitch competition in Doha in early 2026, giving founders exposure to international investors, local partners, and the potential opportunity to launch pilots in Qatar’s healthcare system.
Entrepreneurs can learn more and apply here.
Backed by Deerfield and Qatar Investment Authority
The accelerator stems from a collaboration between Deerfield Management Company and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) via QIA’s Fund of Funds program.
"The collaboration between Deerfield and QIA combines global healthcare venture capital capabilities with localized ecosystem support to advance healthcare entrepreneurship in the Middle East," said James Flynn, Managing Partner at Deerfield. “We believe the Cure by Deerfield Middle East Health Accelerator will become a powerful platform and resource hub for healthcare ventures in the region.”
Who Should Apply
Applications are open until October 10th, 2025. Eligible startups should already have a minimum viable product or commercial solution with a demonstrated market need. Digital health, medical technology, and healthcare services-based ventures that improve access, enhance quality, and reduce costs are encouraged to apply.
Preference will be given to startups with models that can integrate into existing reimbursement systems in Qatar and the wider MENA region, as well as founders with a clear path to international expansion. Teams must include at least three members, with one Qatari citizen based in Doha.
“The accelerator will leverage Qatar’s vibrant ecosystem,” said Dr. Mussaad M. Al-Razouki, Operating Partner at Deerfield. “Startups will meet key local stakeholders and gain critical insights into market integration, regulation, and scaling across MENA.”