The Capital Circle Connect Highlights the Future of Venture Capital in the MENA Region

It was highlighted by a high-level panel discussion titled “The Future of Venture in MENA: Building a Global Hub for 2026” on how the region has rapidly emerged as one of the places to go for global capital, startups, and innovation-driven enterprises. Panelists shared their views on investment trends, cross-border opportunities, and the role of institutional capital in shaping sustainable growth.

Anna L. De Bacci, co-founder & CEO of De Bacci Capital, underlined the growth in international investors' confidence in the MENA ecosystem and urged for more founder-centric investment strategies toward long-term value creation. Sahil Shah, Head of Investment Operations at RealFi (IOG), presented perspectives on blockchain-enabled finance and how emerging technologies are redefining venture models and capital efficiency in the region.

Bringing an institutional and market-oriented viewpoint to the discussion, Silvija Clark, the Institutional Sales Director at Burjx, discussed the increasing need for the promotion of transparent and regulated investment models. Maryna Barysheva, the CEO at LKI Consulting, shared insights regarding market preparedness, advisory, and the alignment of MENA-based start-ups with expansion objectives.

The moderator of the session was Daniel Malinovski, the co-founder and director of Simplicity Group. The discussion was steered towards gaining insightful information and how collaboration between investors and founders is a success factor for the region.

After the panel, there was an open networking session, which allowed for interaction and the promotion of conversations between venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, corporate officials, and ecosystem enablers. This aspect facilitated the creation of new networks and possible collaborations across borders.

Being a side event to the Global Games Show, "The Capital Circle Connect" emphasized the increasing significance of the region to the global venture ecosystem. Through a strategic combination of discussion and networking, the session identified the ambition to position the MENA region at the forefront of the global ecosystem for venture capital and innovation and investment-led growth until the year 2026 and beyond.

About VAP Group

VAP Group is a global leader in consulting, media, and events, driving innovation across emerging technologies including blockchain, AI, Web3, and digital transformation. Through its flagship platforms and strategic initiatives, VAP Group connects industry leaders, policymakers, startups, and enterprises to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sustainable growth across global markets.

Media Inquiries

Press contact: media@vapgroup.co