Vishal Parmar on VAP Group's Evolution Into a Global Powerhouse and the Future of Blockchain and AI
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In this exclusive interview with StartupTalky, Vishal Parmar, Founder and CEO of VAP Group, shares his journey of how they began in the digital marketing sector, expanded into various services, and grew into a global business. He talks about VAP Group's strategic pivot to blockchain, AI, staffing, and media services, and their recent expansion into Dubai and Hong Kong. Parmar discusses future plans, the success of the Global Blockchain Show, and how VAP Group addresses industry challenges while aiming to change the business world and create a global community.
StartupTalky: Can you give a brief overview of VAP Group and the recent pivot to a multinational firm? What factors influenced this decision, and how does it reflect VAP Group's mission and values?
Mr. Parmar: I founded VAP Group at the age of 19, driven by a vision to shape the future of business. In the early days, I led a team of 20, where my youth often set me apart. We started in the digital marketing sector and later expanded into various other services which led VAP Group to appear in Global services. While SEO Services remain our core services, we emerged into various other services. Right now, we have many brands under VAP Group amongst which are Staffing Ninja, Marketing Ninja services which help crypto companies to enable smooth marketing and hiring processes.
We also launched Two premium global news websites Times of Blockchain & Times of AI to cater to the crypto and AI Communities with the latest and authentic updates. Seeing the growth and potential in emerging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence propelled me to step foot in the events and conferences domain and this is how VAP Group Launched its first edition of the Global Blockchain Show and Global AI Show in Dubai in the month of April.
2023 marked a period of unprecedented growth and expansion for VAP Group. We opened four offices in India and established our global presence by inaugurating two offices in Dubai and Hong Kong. We are hopeful about further expansion around the world.
I truly believe in the power of adaptability and foresight. Our evolution from digital marketing, recruitment, and media services to events and conferences was a strategic progression, driven by our unwavering commitment to staying ahead of the curve. Today, as VAP Group continues its ascent to new heights, I remain resolute in our mission to revolutionize the business landscape. We are not merely building a company; we are creating a Global community of people who are poised to make a significant impact in the world.
StartupTalky: What new services or technologies is VAP Group planning to explore in the coming years?
Mr. Parmar: We are absolutely thrilled with the incredible response we've received for both the Global AI Show and the Global Blockchain Show which took place in April in Dubai. The enthusiasm underscores the immense growth potential we're tapping into. Looking ahead, VAP Group is expanding our events portfolio, exploring new verticals within emerging technologies, and supporting ambitious startups. We are also dedicated to continually enhancing the experiences at the Global AI Show and the Global Blockchain Show. By listening to attendee feedback, we will fuel improvements and innovations for future editions.
Our ambitions extend beyond the current markets. We are actively exploring opportunities to take our impactful events to other key global destinations, solidifying our presence on the international stage. As we work to make the Global AI Show and the Global Blockchain Show our flagship events, we have also launched our media ventures, Times of AI, dedicated to AI news, and Times of Blockchain, a premium crypto news website for the most authentic and timely information and news sourced from global teams. Additionally, we look forward to the growth prospects of our other segments like CryptoNewZ, Blockchain Marketing Ninja, and Blockchain Staffing Ninja, which are integral to our core business strategy and will continue to play vital roles in supporting our overall mission.
In the upcoming days, we also wish to launch the Global Blockchain Show & Global AI Show second edition in the month of December for which date announcements are yet to be done.
Singh Anusha
StartupTalky: What is the main focus of VAP Group's signature event- the Global Blockchain Show happening in December 2024?
Mr. Parmar: The main focus of VAP Group's signature event, the Global Blockchain Show happening in December 2024, is to create the ultimate networking event with a festival-like atmosphere. Unlike traditional conferences, this event dedicates two full days to extended networking and business discussions in a relaxed and engaging environment.
To enhance the experience, the event every hour will feature rapid-fire 10-minute talks from leading blockchain figures, providing concise and impactful insights and predictions for 2025, and ensuring the audience remains engaged.
The event also emphasizes accessibility and interaction with headliners, who will stay on the main floor to engage directly with attendees before and after their talks. The integrated expo and stage area allows for a seamless flow of information and interaction, with talks audible from anywhere in the venue, and the non-traditional expo setup encourages lively and meaningful interactions in a dynamic, rave-like environment.
A flexible agenda ensures that attendees can enjoy the event without worrying about missing key presentations due to overlapping schedules. Recognizing that a significant portion of business deals happen after hours, the event maximizes these opportunities, catering to preferences for after-party connections with statistics showing that 71% of business occurs after hours and 61% of attendees prefer these connections.
Positioned as the season finale of the global blockchain calendar, the Global Blockchain Show serves as a year-end wrap-up and a kick-start for 2025, offering fresh insights and strategies. To build buzz and community engagement, the event will leverage social media campaigns with hashtags like #TheBlockchainBlowout and #TheBlockchainSeasonFinale.
StartupTalky: What sets the Global Blockchain Show apart, and what's your greatest achievement with it so far? How do you plan to ensure its success?
Mr. Parmar: The Global Blockchain Show sets itself apart with its unparalleled resilience and ability to attract a remarkable audience despite challenging circumstances. For instance, on the day of our event in Dubai, the city was hit by heavy rains and floods, yet we welcomed thousands of visitors. This turnout, even in adverse weather, speaks volumes about the event's significance and the commitment of our attendees. Our greatest achievement so far is this extraordinary level of participation, alongside hosting some of the most eminent speakers and enthusiasts in the blockchain and AI fields, making the event a resounding success.
Visitors to the Global Blockchain Show had the unique opportunity to see the world’s first AI humanoid robot, Sophia, who serves as the Official Ambassador of both the Global AI Show and the Global Blockchain Show. Witnessing Sophia live in action—talking and expressing human-like emotions—was a highlight for many attendees.
Additionally, The Global Blockchain Show provided an invaluable platform for networking with global industry experts and leaders in the web3 domain, including H.E. Justin Sun, Founder of TRON and Member of the HTX Global Advisory Board; Lennix Lai, Chief Commercial Officer of OKX; and Dominic Williams, Founder & Chief Scientist at DFINITY Foundation. It also showcased fantastic solutions and innovative products from futuristic companies, allowing attendees to explore the latest developments in the blockchain ecosystem, from decentralized finance platforms to non-fungible tokens and beyond.
To ensure the continued success of the Global Blockchain Show, we are committed to listening to attendee feedback and continually enhancing the event experience. Our goal is to create a dynamic and engaging platform that not only informs and inspires but also fosters meaningful connections and innovations in the blockchain space.
StartupTalky: What are the major attractions of the Global Blockchain Show- Dubai 2024?
Mr. Parmar: The previous edition of the Global Blockchain Show in Dubai was a remarkable success, showcasing numerous major attractions that set it apart as a leading event in the blockchain and crypto space.
One of the standout features was the presence of world-class speakers and influencers. Attendees had the privilege of hearing from prominent figures such as Carl Runefelt, from "The Moon," the company which has invested in over 400 blockchain startups, and Grey Jabesi, the founder of Crypto University. These speakers shared their insights and experiences, providing valuable knowledge to all participants​.
The event also featured exclusive keynotes and panels, which included thought-provoking talks and debates on the main stage. Notable speakers like Dr. Sameer Al Ansari, CEO of RAK DAO, and Talal Tabbaa, CEO and Co-Founder of CoinMENA, were among the key figures who contributed to the rich content of the event. These sessions provided deep dives into current trends and future directions in the blockchain industry​.
Networking opportunities were abundant, allowing attendees to connect with global industry experts and leaders. The event facilitated interactions with influential individuals such as Jeremy Firster from the Cardano Foundation and David Palmer from Vodafone’s Digital Asset Broker Platform. These connections were invaluable for fostering collaborations and building professional relationships​.
StartupTalky: What are the major challenges you have faced in the blockchain industry worldwide, and how does VAP Group plan to handle these challenges?
Mr. Parmar: The blockchain industry worldwide faces several significant challenges, including regulatory uncertainties, security concerns, and the rapid pace of technological advancements. VAP Group addresses these challenges by providing timely and fast-paced tailored marketing solutions to crypto companies and offering comprehensive marketing & staffing services.
Additionally, VAP Group supports clients through PR and advertising, media and management, digital marketing, and organizing conferences and expos. Our holistic approach ensures that blockchain projects are equipped with innovative strategies and the latest trends, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry effectively.
StartupTalky: Are there any specific tools or technologies VAP Group uses to enhance its services?
Mr. Parmar: Yes, VAP Group leverages a variety of tools and technologies to enhance its services across different domains. Specifically for our SEO efforts, we utilize Ahrefs for comprehensive backlink analysis and keyword research, Grammarly to ensure our content is polished and error-free, and SurferSEO to optimize our content for search engines based on real-time data.
Beyond SEO, we employ several project management tools such as ClickUp to ensure our marketing services are precisely aligned with client requirements and project timelines. These tools help streamline our workflows, facilitate team collaboration, and maintain the highest standards in service delivery.
StartupTalky: Are there any plans to integrate AI into your team’s workflow? If so, which departments are likely to see this implementation first?
Mr. Parmar: So, Yes! we are actively planning to integrate AI into our team’s workflow. We've already begun using AI tools in our creative department for creating conceptual images, which has significantly enhanced our creative process by providing unique and innovative visual concepts.
Additionally, several key departments are set to see AI implementation first. Our design team, for instance, is leveraging AI to generate conceptual images and streamline the design process. Our team is using Microsoft free ai-generator and Midjourney etc tools for now. Using AI tools, Our team can explore a wider range of design possibilities and achieve higher efficiency in project execution.
Moreover, our customer service department is adopting AI-powered assistance to enhance the quality and speed of responses. This ensures that our clients receive timely and accurate support, improving overall customer satisfaction.
The marketing team is also adapting to some bended techniques and AI tools to analyze market trends and consumer behavior, enabling more targeted and effective campaigns. By integrating AI into these areas, we aim to achieve the best possible outcomes and continuously elevate the quality of our services.
Anji Velagana
StartupTalky: Can you discuss a particularly successful project or client case where VAP Group's services significantly boosted their growth?
Mr. Parmar: We have numerous success stories, but a particularly noteworthy example is our recent work on the Global Blockchain Show and the Global AI Show. These events were pivotal projects for VAP Group, showcasing our comprehensive capabilities in event management, marketing, PR, and conference production.
For both shows, we had the privilege of having Sophia, the robot, as our official brand ambassador. This not only added a unique and futuristic appeal to the events but also underscored our commitment to integrating advanced technology into our projects.
These events were entirely in-house endeavors. Our marketing team worked tirelessly to create compelling campaigns that reached a global audience. The PR team ensured extensive media coverage, generating buzz and excitement leading up to the shows. Meanwhile, our event management and conference production teams meticulously planned and executed every detail, from logistics to speaker line-ups, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
Despite facing a severe natural calamity in Dubai, our efforts paid off. The events attracted a substantial number of attendees, demonstrating the resilience and dedication of our team. The success of these debut events was not just measured in footfall but also in the positive feedback and engagement we received from participants and stakeholders.
Following this success, we are excited to announce the second edition of the Global Blockchain Show and the Global AI Show, scheduled for December. We are confident that these upcoming events will build on the success of the first editions and continue to set new benchmarks in the industry.
We would also like to extend a warm invitation to StartupTalky to join us as one of our media partners for these upcoming events. Your partnership would be invaluable in helping us reach an even wider audience and making the second edition of our shows an even greater success.
StartupTalky: How does VAP Group measure the success of its projects and services, and what metrics are most important in evaluating their impact?
Mr. Parmar: VAP Group measures the success of its projects and services through a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics tailored to each client's goals. Key performance indicators (KPIs) include:
- SEO Performance: Metrics such as organic traffic, keyword rankings, domain authority, and backlink profile are crucial. Tools like Ahrefs help us track these effectively.
- Content Quality: Engagement metrics such as bounce rate, time on page, and social shares are used to gauge content effectiveness. Grammarly ensures our content meets high standards, while SurferSEO helps in optimizing it for better performance.
- Conversion Rates: Monitoring lead generation, conversion rates, and ROI from marketing campaigns provides insight into the financial impact of our efforts.
- Client Satisfaction: Regular feedback from clients, retention rates, and Net Promoter Score (NPS) help us understand and improve client satisfaction.
- Project Management Efficiency: Using project management tools, we track project timelines, task completion rates, and team productivity to ensure our services are delivered efficiently and meet client requirements.
These metrics collectively help VAP Group evaluate the impact and success of its projects, ensuring continuous improvement and alignment with client objectives.
StartupTalky: What role do you think blockchain technology will play in the next five years, and how is VAP Group preparing for these changes?
Mr. Parmar: Blockchain technology is poised to play a transformative role in various industries over the next five years. It is expected to revolutionize sectors such as finance, supply chain management, healthcare, and more by offering enhanced security, transparency, and efficiency. Key developments we anticipate include widespread adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi), increased use of smart contracts, and greater integration of blockchain in regulatory compliance and data management.
At VAP Group, we are proactively preparing for these changes by expanding our expertise in blockchain technology. Here are a few ways we are getting ready:
- Expertise Development: We are continuously training our team to stay ahead of the curve in blockchain innovations. This involves specialized training programs, attending industry conferences, and collaborating with leading blockchain experts.
- Strategic Partnerships: We are forming strategic partnerships with blockchain technology providers and innovators. These collaborations help us integrate cutting-edge blockchain solutions into our services, ensuring we can offer the best to our clients.
Apart from that we are already working on blockchain integration in services, through our events like the Global Blockchain Show, we are positioning ourselves as thought leaders in the blockchain space. We are also developing bespoke blockchain-focused solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. Whether it’s integrating blockchain for secure transactions, leveraging smart contracts for efficient business processes, or enhancing data security, we are committed to helping our clients harness the power of blockchain.
By staying at the forefront of blockchain technology and integrating it into our services, VAP Group is well-prepared to navigate and lead in the evolving landscape of the next five years.
StartupTalky: What advice would you give to new blockchain startups that are trying to be successful in this competitive market?
Mr. Parmar: I have observed the profound impact blockchain has in empowering communities, so I strongly advise blockchain startups to foster community engagement through transparency and open communication. Develop strategic partnerships to leverage resources and explore new markets.
For new blockchain startups, my advice is to concentrate on solving real-world problems where blockchain technology offers clear value. Embrace innovation and adaptability by staying up-to-date with technological advancements and market trends. Build a strong, diverse team that is passionate about blockchain. Prioritize security with robust measures and regular audits to establish user trust. Stay informed about regulatory compliance to avoid legal issues and focus on providing a seamless user experience. Ensure you have a sustainable business model with a clear path to profitability.
Finally, remain persistent and resilient, learning from failures and iterating quickly. By adhering to these principles, startups can build strong foundations and thrive in the competitive blockchain industry.
Sayantan Mondal
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