VAP Group launches VAP Ventures to back 100 startups by 2030

VAP Group has launched VAP Ventures in Riyadh as a new investment arm focused on AI, Web3, blockchain and gaming. The initiative aims to back 100 startups by 2030 with capital, media access, talent support and event exposure as the company expands from hosting innovation platforms to funding founders directly.

Why it matters: - VAP Group is moving from convening founders and investors to backing startups directly, expanding its role in the global innovation ecosystem. - The new arm is designed to help early-stage companies get more than capital, including market access and strategic support that can speed up growth. - The launch aligns with Saudi Arabia’s push to build innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge-based industries.

What happened: - VAP Group announced VAP Ventures, its dedicated investment arm, at the Global AI Show, Global Games Show and Global Blockchain Show Riyadh 2026. - The launch took place in Riyadh during the June 29-30 events, where industry leaders, investors, innovators and decision-makers gathered. - VAP Group said VAP Ventures will back 100 startups by 2030. - Founder and CEO Vishal Parmar said the company is now investing in founders after years of giving them a stage.

The details: - VAP Ventures will focus on startups in artificial intelligence, Web3, blockchain and digital games. - The initiative will run over the next five years. - Each selected startup will receive direct capital and access to VAP Group’s media ecosystem, marketing capabilities, talent network and globally recognized event platforms. - The company said the goal is to help founders move from early-stage ideas to scalable businesses. - VAP Ventures will prioritize enterprise AI, Web3 infrastructure, blockchain innovation and next-generation gaming ecosystems. - Startups will be able to apply through a dedicated application platform with company information and pitch materials. - More information is available in the company’s announcement.

Between the lines: - The launch turns VAP Group’s events and media reach into an investment pipeline, which could give portfolio startups a built-in channel for visibility and partnerships. - The model is broader than a typical venture fund because it ties funding to promotion, talent access and stage time. - The Saudi launch also signals a regional strategy, with Riyadh positioned as a base for founders aiming at global markets.

What's next: - VAP Ventures is opening applications as it begins building its inaugural cohort. - The startup arm will start deploying support across its target sectors over the next five years. - VAP Group is positioning the initiative as part of a longer-term effort to move startups from the region onto the global stage.

The bottom line: - VAP Group is betting that capital plus media, talent and event access can become a stronger startup engine than funding alone.