Conference Overview
Frontier technologies are reshaping the business landscape, providing transformative tools that enhance resilience and adaptability within economies. These advancements—encompassing Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain Technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), Quantum Computing, Digital Twins, Robotics, Advanced Data Analytics, and others—are redefining how organizations address global challenges, innovate for the future, and generate a sustainable impact that contributes to resilient economies. In this context, we are pleased to announce a call for papers for the 8th International Conference on Entrepreneurship for Sustainability & Impact (ESI), themed “Frontier Technologies for Resilient Economies.” This conference seeks to convene leading academics, industry experts, and visionary thinkers to examine how cutting-edge technologies are fostering economic resilience and sustainable growth. We invite submissions that investigate the business, economic, social, and ethical dimensions of frontier technologies. The conference will feature various tracks each focusing on specific domains where frontier technologies are exerting significant influence, including entrepreneurship, digital finance, climate change solutions, logistics, retail, and consumer engagement among other topics. This conference presents a unique opportunity to showcase pioneering research, foster impactful collaborations, and ignite stimulating discussions. Collectively, we aim to shape the future of business and policy in this rapidly advancing technological era.
We invite you to join us on this intellectual journey to explore and shape the evolving landscape of frontier technologies for more resilient economies..
Conference key topics
- Frontier Technologies and Entrepreneurship: Exploring how cutting-edge innovations drive business agility and growth.
- Emerging Technology-Driven Business Models: Examining the impact of AI, IoT, and disruptive technologies on modern business strategies.
- Ethics and Policy for Disruptive Technologies: Addressing regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations.
- International Business Strategies in a Digital Era: Analyzing global competitiveness amid rapid digital transformation.
- Tech Innovation in Tourism and Hospitality: Exploring AI and smart technologies in enhancing customer experiences and operations.
- Digital Asset Ecosystem and Blockchain: Investigating the evolving landscape of decentralized technologies and their business applications.
- Smart Cities and Urban Development: Leveraging IoT and digital infrastructure for sustainable urban growth.
- Business Analytics and Supply Chain Resilience: Utilizing data-driven insights for efficient and adaptive supply chain management.
- AI and Marketing Technologies: Redefining marketing strategies through AI-driven insights and frontier technologies.
- Climate Resilience and Circular Economy: Exploring innovations in sustainability, renewable energy, and eco-friendly business models.
- Transforming Education and Healthcare through Technology: Examining advancements in EdTech and digital healthcare solutions.
- Case Study Track: Showcasing practical applications and success stories of technology-driven innovation.
- General Track: Business Trends: Highlighting new developments that challenge traditional business practices.
- Ph.D. Symposium: A platform for doctoral researchers to present innovative studies and collaborate with leading scholars.
Even though we are interested in abstracts on the conference theme, we welcome submissions on topics within the broader business research.
Timeline for Extended Abstracts
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Deadline for Extended Abstracts
15th July 2025 -
Review Period and Decisions
2nd July – 31st August 2025 -
Decisions Deadline
15th September 2025 -
Deadline for Full Papers
30th September 2025 (mandatory for nomination for Best Paper awards)
Conference Proceeding
The conference proceedings will feature a concise abstract of each presentation, accompanied by a focused exposition of the research's societal impact, limited to 150 words each. These abstracts and impact statements will be published together in the ESI 2025 conference proceeding, offering a comprehensive overview of the research and its relevance to broader societal concerns.
Awards
All submissions will be evaluated based on their contribution towards the advancement of practice and theory as well as their potential contribution to entrepreneurship and sustainability. Prizes will be announced at the closing session of the conference.
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Best Paper Awards: The winner will receive a cash award of $1,000, the second-place finalist will receive $750, and the third-place finalist will receive $500.
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Best Case Study Awards: the winner will be awarded the sum of $750.
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Best Poster Awards: The winner will receive a cash award of $750, the second-place will receive $500.
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Best Master/MBA-Dissertation Based Paper Awards: the winner will be awarded the sum of $750.
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PhD Research Award: At least five authors with outstanding PhD dissertation-based full papers will receive funding to cover their travel and accommodation expenses to attend and present their research at the conference.
Submission Guidelines
We welcome submission of extended abstracts and/or full papers. Please submit a 1000-1500 word extended abstract (about 4 to 5 pages excluding references, appendices, and other materials) as a proposal to consider for the conference.
You may download the submission template for the extended abstract
here. Full papers will also be accepted into the submission system. At least one author must attend the conference for the proposed paper to be included in the conference program.
Research Impact
As a vital part of the ESI conference, participants are invited to engage in a reflective exercise on the implications of their research. For each accepted paper for presentation, a written piece of 100 words presents their research's potential social/economic/business impact. This section is designed to encourage scholars to think beyond the academic sphere and consider how their research can contribute to or influence societal aspects such as public policy, community health, environmental sustainability, business development, technological innovation, education, or social justice.
Please note that you need to upload the extended abstract and/or full paper (in PDF or WORD formats) as an attachment to complete the submission.
Registration
The registration fees for the ESI 2025 Conference are as follows (based on country of residence):
- Regular Faculty Members from High-Income Countries: $150 USD
- Regular Faculty Members from Low- and Medium-Income Countries: $75 USD
- Ph.D., Master's, and all Postgraduate Students: No Fees (Fees Waived)
Registration is
mandatory for all attendees.
* Please note that registration fees are non-refundable.
All paper presentations will take place in person and on-site. At least one author must register and attend the conference in person to present.
About ESI
The Entrepreneurship for Sustainability & Impact (ESI) is an annual conference hosted by the Center for Entrepreneurship & Organizational Excellence (CEOE) – Qatar University. It is one of the leading entrepreneurship conferences in the MENA region. ESI is a community of scholars and practitioners interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and organizational excellence research, teaching, and practice. Our mission is to provide a forum for sharing ideas and interaction to advance entrepreneurship and organizational excellence research in the region. The objectives of ESI are to foster research collaborations; share experiences on entrepreneurship and innovation practices; and develop policies that address economic, social, and environmental challenges. Details of last year’s conference can be found
here
About CBE
Founded in 1985,
the College of Business and Economics (CBE) at Qatar University has over 5,500 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. Building on almost 40 years of providing business education, we proudly offer innovative and experiential majors in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, Management and Management Information Systems, as well as minors in Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, and Taxation. The CBE's future-facing programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and its MBA program is ranked in the top 100 in the world in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024 and second best in the Middle East and Africa Region, enabling it to transform its students into professional graduates that are sought-after by employers in Qatar and around the world.
About CFE
The Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) is an entrepreneurship center within the College of Business & Economics at Qatar University. The CFE inspires to be an exemplary entrepreneurship center, regionally and internationally, by creating and application of new knowledge and engaging in value-added activities that lead to sustainable business and societal impact. The CFE plays a pivotal role in enhancing Qatar's entrepreneurial ecosystem through a blend of academic and practical applications. We support emerging entrepreneurs by providing essential resources, guidance for developing their ventures, and facilitating connections with incubators throughout Qatar. Additionally, we cultivate robust partnerships within local and international entrepreneurial networks to strengthen the entrepreneurial landscape. The CFE actively contributes to creating an environment that nurtures innovation and supports Qatar's ongoing economic diversification.
The Conference Setting
Qatar has emerged as a leader in the region in organizing several successful events including ASIA CUP 2024, EXPO 2023, and FIFA World Cup 2022 among many others. Doha, the capital of the country, is located in the east of the country. Doha is home to approximately 2.656 million people from all over the world. It is the country's fastest-growing city and its business center. From a pearling and fishing village of great importance, with around 350 pearling boats at the beginning of the 20th century, Doha underwent a complete economic transformation and became a modern and prosperous city. Doha's tourism sector has evolved rapidly over the years, with key attractions and several museums of great importance gaining the spotlight. Known for its exemplary hospitality, exquisite cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and traditional Souqs, along with a plethora of adventures and activities, Doha is growing rapidly and offers something for all travelers. More details can be obtained from the
Visit Qatar Website.
Qatar University, located in the vibrant city of Doha, is strategically positioned in close proximity to several key landmarks and areas of interest. It is just a short distance from Lusail, a smart city known for its futuristic architecture and sustainability; Dafna, an affluent neighborhood; Katara, the cultural village that's a hub for art and heritage; and the Pearl, a luxurious man-made island known for its upscale living and leisure experiences. This location places the university at the heart of Qatar's dynamic urban development and cultural richness.
For further information on the conference, please contact us at:
esi@qu.edu.qa