So, Who Is an Entrepreneur? A Fresh Take from QU Frontiers

Published on Aug 31st • 5 min read • Entreprenruship

Introduction

Welcome to the very first issue of QU Frontiers' newsletter. This series will explore ideas and topics that don’t often get the spotlight, but should — especially if you’re curious about entrepreneurship and innovation.

Why Entrepreneurship?

Entrepreneurship is more than just building a business. It’s about taking control of your own path, doing what excites you, and shaping opportunities around your passions. While not every venture aligns perfectly with passion, the flexibility of entrepreneurship allows you to build in tech, social innovation, sustainability, healthcare, creative industries — or anywhere your interests lead.

Who is an Entrepreneur (Really)?

The dictionary definition:

entrepreneur
/ˌɒntrəprəˈnəː/
noun
someone who starts their own business, especially when this involves risks

A more practical view: an entrepreneur is a problem solver — someone who sees challenges as opportunities and creates value for others. You don’t need to build the next Apple or Tesla to qualify. Starting a project, launching a student club, or offering a service can all be acts of entrepreneurship. It’s a mindset: see a problem, act on it, and create change.

Startup vs SME

The Difference

• SMEs — steady growth, traditional business models (restaurants, laundry shops, retail).
• Startups — disruptive, innovative, aiming to change how things are done or introduce something completely new (e.g., Uber).

Types of Startups

Entrepreneurship isn’t one-size-fits-all. Startups can take many forms:

• Tech startups — apps, platforms, AI, and digital innovation.
• Social startups — addressing social or environmental issues.
• Green startups — sustainability and climate-focused solutions.
• Healthcare startups — biotech, medtech, health innovation.
• Creative startups — media, design, new forms of content.

Whatever your interest, there’s a way to channel it into entrepreneurship.

Qatar’s 2030 Vision and Support Ecosystem

National Context

One of the pillars of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 is building a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation. Central to this effort is the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), which plays a leading role in supporting entrepreneurs, empowering student innovators, and fostering a culture of technology-driven growth in Qatar.

What’s Next

In the next issue, we’ll explore QSTP in depth: what they offer, how they support student entrepreneurs, and why they’re central to Qatar’s startup ecosystem. This newsletter is brought to you by the QSTP Student Ambassadors at Qatar University.