VAP Group Launches VAP Ventures to Back 100 Startups by 2030 and Drive Global Innovation
VAP Group has unveiled VAP Ventures, a new investment arm created to support high-potential startups in artificial intelligence, Web3, blockchain, and digital gaming. Announced in Riyadh on 30 June 2026, the move marks a major step in the company’s evolution from hosting global innovation platforms to directly funding the founders building the next wave of technology.
The launch was revealed during the Riyadh 2026 editions of the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, held from 29 to 30 June. The events brought together thousands of investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders, making the debut of VAP Ventures one of the headline announcements of the gathering.
For years, VAP Group has built a reputation by creating international stages where startups, governments, enterprises, and investors can connect across emerging technology sectors. With VAP Ventures, the company is now moving beyond convening conversations and into directly backing companies with the potential to scale globally.
According to the company, VAP Ventures plans to support 100 startups by 2030. Its focus will be on founders building in sectors expected to shape the future digital economy, including enterprise AI, Web3 infrastructure, blockchain innovation, and next-generation gaming ecosystems.
The initiative is also positioned as a strategic fit for Saudi Arabia’s wider innovation ambitions. Launching from Riyadh gives the program a foothold in one of the region’s fastest-growing technology markets, while aligning it with the Kingdom’s emphasis on entrepreneurship, knowledge-based industries, and globally competitive digital businesses.
More Than a Traditional Investment Model
What sets VAP Ventures apart, at least in its stated ambition, is its promise to offer more than capital alone. Startups selected for the program will receive funding, but also access to VAP Group’s broader ecosystem, including media distribution, marketing support, talent networks, and visibility through its established international events.
That blended model reflects an increasingly common view in startup investing: early-stage companies often need strategic exposure and market access just as much as financial backing. By combining investment with communications and platform reach, VAP Ventures appears designed to help young companies move faster from concept to commercial scale.
Backed by a Global Events Platform
VAP Group’s strength has long been its ability to bring together different corners of the technology ecosystem. Through conferences, media channels, and consulting work, the company has connected innovators with enterprise buyers, public-sector stakeholders, investors, and talent pools across multiple regions.
That network could become a meaningful advantage for startups entering the VAP Ventures portfolio. Instead of operating in isolation after a fundraising round, founders may be able to tap into built-in distribution, partnerships, and credibility from the outset.
“We gave founders a stage for years. Now we’re backing them,” said Vishal Parmar, Founder and CEO of VAP Group. “VAP Ventures will invest in more than 100 startups across AI, Web3, and gaming over five years in capital, media, talent, and reach, all under one roof. This is visibility turning into vital support.”
Key Highlights
- 100 startups to be backed by 2030
- Launch location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Core sectors: Artificial Intelligence, Web3 and Blockchain, Digital Games
- Support model: Capital, media exposure, marketing, talent access, and global event platforms
Why This Matters
The launch of VAP Ventures signals a broader shift in how ecosystem builders are trying to create long-term impact. Rather than simply hosting high-profile events or facilitating introductions, companies like VAP Group are increasingly looking to convert their networks into active investment channels.
If executed well, the strategy could strengthen the pipeline between startup visibility and startup viability. Founders often gain attention at major conferences but struggle to convert that momentum into sustainable growth. VAP Ventures is positioning itself as a bridge between those two stages.
It also reflects the intensifying race to back startups in AI, decentralized technologies, and gaming, sectors where competition for talent, capital, and global relevance is accelerating. By committing to 100 startups over the next five years, VAP Group is making a sizable statement about the scale of its ambition.
Applications Now Open
Startups interested in joining the first cohort of VAP Ventures will be able to apply through the dedicated application platform. The submission process will include company details and pitch materials as the firm begins reviewing potential investments.
For VAP Group, the launch is more than a new business unit. It is an attempt to turn its role as a convener of innovation into that of a direct enabler of startup growth, helping founders from the region and beyond build companies capable of competing on the global stage.
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a global consulting and media company with more than 13 years of experience in technology-led growth. Through its media ecosystem and flagship events, including the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, the company works to connect policymakers, enterprises, and innovators worldwide.
More information is available at vapgroup.co/vap-ventures.
