Queensbridge legend and one of hip-hop's earliest tech investors — backed Ring, Dropbox, and others via QueensBridge Venture Partners.
Nasir Bin Olu Dara Jones, known as Nas, was born and raised in the Queensbridge Houses of Long Island City, Queens — the largest public housing project in North America. While his rap legacy is unimpeachable, Nas's financial genius is equally remarkable. He co-founded QueensBridge Venture Partners, one of the first hip-hop-backed venture capital firms, and made early investments in Ring (acquired by Amazon for $1B+), Dropbox, and over 100 other tech startups. His portfolio has returned multiples of his initial investments, making him a legitimate Silicon Valley player. Nas built a bridge between the block and the boardroom that very few have managed.
Co-founded QueensBridge Venture Partners — one of hip-hop's first VC firms
Early investor in Ring (acquired by Amazon) and Dropbox
Diversified portfolio across 100+ tech startups
Maintains Mass Appeal Records as an independent label
Uses cultural credibility as a deal-sourcing competitive advantage