VALT Finance Secures Grant from Silicon Valley-Based University

VALT Finance, a promising fintech startup focused on democratizing gold and cryptocurrency investing, has recently made headlines by securing an equity-free grant from Draper University and Stellar. This achievement has also earned the company a coveted spot in the DraperU x Stellar Astro Hacker House Program, a three-week residential fellowship designed for the brightest minds in Web3. Selected from over 1,000 applicants after multiple rounds of pitching, VALT Finance stands out as one of the 20 best projects chosen to participate in this innovative program. The DraperU x Stellar Astro Hacker House Program is an intensive experience where participants live, work, and collaborate on groundbreaking projects. The program, held at the Draper University campus in Silicon Valley, is known for bringing together top talent from around the world to push the boundaries of Web3 and blockchain technology. For VALT Finance, being part of this program marks a significant milestone in its journey toward making cryptocurrency investing more accessible to the masses. For Mohammad Mustafa Hassan, co-founder and CEO of VALT Finance, this opportunity represents a crucial step in the company’s mission. “We are incredibly excited and grateful for the support from Draper University and Stellar,” Mohammad shares. “The grant is not just a financial boost; it’s a vote of confidence in our vision to make gold and cryptocurrency investing accessible to everyone. Being part of the DraperU x Stellar Astro Hacker House Program will allow us to refine our product, connect with industry leaders, and accelerate our growth.” The strategic investment from DraperU Ventures also comes with mentorship and access to a vast network of entrepreneurs, investors, and technologists. “This is a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the industry,” Mohammad continues. “The resources and guidance we’ll receive during this program will be invaluable as we work to bring VALT Finance to the next level.” This isn’t Mohammad’s first encounter with Draper University. In fact, his journey with the institution began in the fall of 2023, when he was selected for the flagship Hero Training Program on a full scholarship. Reflecting on his time at DraperU, Mohammad speaks with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. “The Hero Training Program was a transformative experience for me,” he says. “It was there that I first pitched the idea for VALT Finance and received incredible feedback from mentors and peers. Winning the top pitch in that program was a huge moment for us and set the stage for everything that has followed.” Following his success in the Hero Training Program, Mohammad was selected for a three-month residency at the DraperU campus from June to August 2024. During this time, he continued to develop VALT Finance, gaining insights from industry experts and refining his pitch. “The residency allowed me to immerse myself in the Silicon Valley ecosystem and connect with other founders who are pushing the boundaries of innovation,” he explains. “It was during this period that we prepared for the DraperU x Stellar Astro Hacker House Program, which we’re thrilled to now be a part of.” VALT Finance was born out of Mohammad’s desire to simplify and democratize investing in digital assets. “Cryptocurrency investing can be intimidating for many people,” he acknowledges. “There’s a steep learning curve, and for those who are not tech-savvy, the barriers to entry can seem insurmountable. At VALT, we’re committed to breaking down those barriers.” The platform leverages cutting-edge technology and a user-friendly interface to make investing in gold and cryptocurrencies straightforward and accessible. “We want to empower people to take control of their financial futures,” Mohammad states. “By providing educational resources and intuitive tools, we’re making it easier for individuals to understand the world of digital assets and invest with confidence.” VALT Finance’s focus on user experience and education sets it apart from many other platforms in the space. “Our goal is to create a seamless and secure environment where users can manage their digital portfolios without feeling overwhelmed,” he adds. “We believe that by making investing more accessible, we can drive mass adoption of cryptocurrencies and help more people benefit from the opportunities that Web3 and blockchain technology offer.” Beyond his work with VALT Finance, Mohammad has continued to stay connected with Draper University, giving back to the community that helped him get his start. “I’ve had the privilege of judging and mentoring at Draper University’s online programs,” he shares. “It’s incredibly rewarding to work with young founders who are just starting out on their entrepreneurial journeys. I remember what it was like to be in their shoes, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support them as they build their dreams.” As Mohammad reflects on his journey, he acknowledges the significant role that his early experiences played in shaping his path. Before founding VALT Finance, Mohammad was deeply involved in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem through his work at the National Incubation Center (NIC) in Islamabad. “The NIC was where I first learned the ropes of entrepreneurship,” he recalls. “It was a time of tremendous growth for Pakistan’s startup community, and I’m proud to have been part of that movement.” At the NIC, Mohammad managed Intrapreneurship and Corporate Partnerships, playing a key role in initiatives like Career Launchpad and collaborating with major corporations such as Coca-Cola and Allied Bank. “My time at the NIC taught me the importance of building strong partnerships and creating value through innovation,” he says. “Those lessons have stayed with me and continue to influence the way I approach my work with VALT Finance.” With the DraperU x Stellar Astro Hacker House Program on the horizon, Mohammad is excited about what the future holds for VALT Finance. “This is just the beginning,” he asserts. “We have big plans for VALT, and we’re committed to making a lasting impact in the world of digital assets.” As VALT Finance prepares to take the next step in its journey, Mohammad remains focused on the mission that has driven him from the start: making investing accessible to everyone. “We believe that financial freedom should be within reach for all,” he concludes. “Through innovation, education, and dedication, we’re working to turn that belief into reality.” As Mohammad Mustafa Hassan continues to break new ground in the fintech and blockchain space, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. From his early days at the National Incubation Center to his current work in Silicon Valley, Mohammad’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities.