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 initiative signals a major shift for the company—from hosting global platforms for innovators to directly funding and accelerating the companies 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 29–30 June. The events brought together thousands of founders, investors, government representatives, and enterprise leaders to discuss the technologies expected to shape the coming decade. Among the event’s headline announcements, VAP Ventures stood out as a clear statement of intent.
For years, VAP Group has built its reputation by connecting startups, policymakers, investors, and large enterprises through its international conferences and media network. With VAP Ventures, the company is now moving beyond ecosystem-building and into direct startup backing, aiming to play a more active role in turning promising ideas into globally scalable businesses.
Backing 100 Startups by 2030
VAP Ventures plans to support 100 startups by 2030, with a sector focus on AI, Web3 & blockchain, and digital games. The new fund is positioned as part of VAP Group’s longer-term strategy to strengthen the global innovation economy through a mix of investment, visibility, and commercial support.
Rather than following a conventional venture model centered only on capital, VAP Ventures says it will offer founders a broader package. Selected startups will receive funding, but also gain access to VAP Group’s media reach, marketing expertise, talent ecosystem, and globally recognized event platforms. The idea is to help startups not only raise money, but also build brand awareness, attract talent, and connect with customers and strategic partners.
This approach could be especially valuable for early-stage companies operating in competitive sectors where exposure and credibility can be just as critical as funding. By combining capital with distribution and industry access, VAP Ventures is trying to differentiate itself in a crowded venture landscape.
Riyadh as a Strategic Launchpad
The decision to launch from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is also significant. The Kingdom has been investing heavily in innovation, digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies as part of its broader economic transformation agenda. VAP Ventures aligns with that momentum by targeting high-growth, knowledge-based sectors and supporting founders with international ambitions.
The firm’s thematic focus includes technologies expected to play a central role in the future digital economy, such as enterprise AI applications, Web3 infrastructure, blockchain innovation, and next-generation gaming ecosystems. These are all markets where capital, technical talent, and market access can determine whether a startup remains niche or achieves global relevance.
From Visibility to Venture Support
Commenting on the launch, Vishal Parmar, Founder and CEO of VAP Group, said the company is building on years of work supporting founders through events and media.
“We gave founders a stage for years. Now we’re backing them. 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.”
That message captures the broader strategy behind the new venture arm. VAP Group is essentially leveraging the ecosystem it has already built—across communications, events, and industry networks—to create a more hands-on model for startup growth.
What Startups Can Expect
- 100 startups targeted for backing by 2030
- Launch base: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Focus sectors: Artificial Intelligence, Web3 & Blockchain, and Digital Games
- Support model: Capital, media exposure, marketing support, talent access, and global stage visibility
Startups interested in joining VAP Ventures will be able to apply through a dedicated platform, submitting company details and pitch materials as the firm begins assembling its first cohort.
Why This Matters
VAP Ventures arrives at a time when startup ecosystems are increasingly looking for investors that can offer more than financial backing. Founders today often need integrated support spanning growth strategy, hiring, partnerships, and media presence. If VAP Group can successfully convert its platform strength into startup outcomes, VAP Ventures could become a notable player at the intersection of venture capital, media, and ecosystem development.
For VAP Group, the move also represents a natural evolution. After more than 13 years building a global presence in consulting, media, and technology events, the company is now making a direct bet on the founders and products it has long helped spotlight.
More information is available at vapgroup.co/vap-ventures.
