In cooperation with Qatar University, QAFCO has initiated the “QAFCO Research and Development Grant” (QRDG). The grant is targeting faculty and students from different fields of research at Qatar University and supports Qatar University Research Strategy providing a supportive research environment. Moreover, QRDG grant supports QAFCO strategy in creating knowledge and contributing to enable Qatar becoming self-sufficient and building a knowledge-based economy to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030. The grant targets individuals from different fields of research at QU, including students, faculty members and staff. QAFCO grant will be dedicated to research proposals that provide solutions to research areas in process enhancement, environmental studies, climate change adaptation and soil health management. Commenting on this cooperation, Prof. Mariam Al Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, said: “This cooperation with QAFCO plays an important role in research experience at QU which focuses on Qatar’s research priorities. This grant an evidence of high-standard research, qualifications, equipment and QU’s contributions in the support development of research in Qatar.” Dr. Mohammed Al Salem, Director of Research Support (Grants & Contracts) at QU, said “QAFCO initiating this grant proves that QAFCO is focusing on contributing the support and development of different research priorities in country, which will eventually result in significant contributions to Qatar National Vision 2030”. Hassan Al-Mohammadi, QAFCO Chief Admin Officer, expressed, “This research partnership aims to support Qatar’s National Vision of 2030 as we believe that securing sustainable economic and social growth is not possible without a well-rounded view that prioritizes preservation of the environment. By doing so we will be able to secure the future for the next generation in Qatar. Supporting Qatar University Research Center is the first step to achieve effective results that will allow us to reach our future aspirations.” The application for QAFCO QRDG grants follows two phases. The first one is a six-month phase related to extended abstracts and the design of proof-of-concepts, then for those who will be selected by the joint jury, a one-year phase focusing on the implementation of the project itself.