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21 Ventures, also known as 21VC, is a venture capital firm founded to support early-stage startups in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), financial technology (FinTech), and industrials. Established with a mission to transform how emerging economies operate, connect, and scale, the firm operates from key locations in New York, London, and Dubai. This geographical presence allows 21VC to tap into diverse markets and leverage local insights.
The firm focuses on a concentrated investment model, engaging deeply with a select number of portfolio companies to drive significant growth. 21 Ventures has not publicly disclosed its total assets under management (AUM) or fund sizes, but it is known for its hands-on approach and commitment to supporting founders from day one.
Notable milestones include their recent investment in Receiptable, a fintech company empowering retailers and financial institutions in the MENA region. This investment reflects the firm’s strategy of backing companies that are positioned to capitalize on the economic transformation occurring in emerging markets.
21 Ventures primarily invests in the Pre-Seed and Seed stages, providing capital ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million. The firm targets sectors such as FinTech, AI, and Industrials, with a specific focus on the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region and Southeast Asia. Their investment strategy is rooted in the belief that these emerging markets are on the cusp of substantial economic transformation, driven by digital-native populations and supportive political environments.
The firm seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to execute their ideas effectively. 21 Ventures prefers to lead investment rounds, allowing them to play a significant role in shaping the growth trajectory of their portfolio companies. Their concentrated investment model means they engage deeply with each company, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support.
21 Ventures has a notable portfolio company, Receiptable, which operates in the fintech sector. Receiptable empowers retailers and financial institutions in the MENA region, facilitating their growth and expansion. The firm made a strategic investment in Receiptable in January 2026, highlighting its commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the financial technology space.
While additional portfolio companies have not been publicly disclosed, 21 Ventures is recognized for its selective investment approach, focusing on a few high-potential startups rather than a broad portfolio. This strategy allows them to provide more intensive support and resources to each company, enhancing their chances of success in competitive markets.
Jacob Isaev - Founder & General Partner. Jacob has a background in venture capital and has previously led investments at JRF Investments in Dubai, where he deployed $8 million across global SaaS, FinTech, and Industrial startups.
Anshul Khazanchi Sinha - Principal. Anshul has experience as a former principal at PwC and TDK Ventures, focusing on AI, deep tech, and industrial innovation.
Sam Marchant - Venture Partner. Sam has a strong track record in early-stage investments, having led £100 million in pre-seed and seed investments at Salica and Ascension in the UK, along with a successful seven-figure entrepreneurial exit.
To pitch to 21 Ventures, founders should visit their website at 21vc.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. Founders are encouraged to provide detailed information about their team and any traction achieved to date.
21 Ventures prefers warm introductions but will also consider direct submissions through their website. Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks if their proposal aligns with the firm's investment criteria.
In January 2026, 21 Ventures made a strategic investment in Receiptable, a fintech company focused on empowering retailers and financial institutions in the MENA region. This investment is part of their ongoing commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the financial technology sector.
21 Ventures continues to explore opportunities in the MENA and Southeast Asia markets, aligning with their investment thesis that these regions are experiencing significant economic transformation driven by digital innovation.
What are the investment criteria for 21 Ventures?
21 Ventures invests in early-stage companies primarily in the Pre-Seed and Seed stages, focusing on sectors such as AI, FinTech, and Industrials. They look for startups that are positioned to benefit from the economic transformation in the MENA and Southeast Asia regions.
How can founders apply or pitch to 21 Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas to 21 Ventures through their website at 21vc.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes 21 Ventures different from other VC firms?
21 Ventures emphasizes a hands-on investment approach, engaging deeply with a limited number of portfolio companies. This concentrated model allows them to provide tailored support and resources to help startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
What is the geographic scope of 21 Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region and Southeast Asia, believing these areas are at a historic economic inflection point driven by digital innovation.
What is the typical check size for investments?
21 Ventures typically invests between $500,000 and $1.5 million in their portfolio companies, allowing them to lead rounds and provide significant capital to support growth.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Founders can expect active involvement from 21 Ventures post-investment, including strategic guidance, operational support, and assistance in navigating the challenges of scaling in emerging markets.
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