First AI IPO of 2025 represents an innovative evolution of the SPAC model to the more refined 3.0 model
IPO bolstered by an investment from the Private Office of Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum of the UAE, in line with the Emirates’ diversification efforts
Blaize has the potential to Revolutionize National Security, School Safety, and Border Protection with Advanced Edge AI Technology
MIAMI & ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, January 14, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Burkhan World Investments (BWI), a trailblazing single-family office known for its impact-driven investment strategies, proudly announces that Blaize (BZAI), a global leader in edge AI computing, successfully went public on January 14th, 2025 on NASDAQ through BurTech Acquisition Corporation, a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) owned by BWI with a valuation of $1.2 billion USD. This milestone positions Blaize as a key player in addressing critical national security challenges and marks the first AI IPO of 2025.
Blaize’s journey to becoming a publicly traded company highlights the evolution of SPACs from their earlier iterations (SPAC 2.0) to the more refined SPAC 3.0 model. Unlike previous SPACs, which faced criticism for overvaluation and limited post-IPO success, BurTech’s approach emphasizes robust pre-IPO funding, strategic partnerships, and rigorous operational readiness. Blaize’s $116 million convertible note with additional funding to follow at close in terms of a fully subscribed PIPE and retained funds of $36 million in the trust account, is one of the largest pre-IPO funding efforts for a SPAC transaction in history, and it provides a solid foundation for Blaize’s market debut and positions the company for sustained growth.
The SPAC 3.0 model offers a unique advantage over traditional IPOs by prefunding high-growth ventures, creating opportunities for retail and institutional investors to participate at a value level that offers greater returns. In contrast, traditional IPOs often prioritize returns for their existing investors, leaving limited growth potential for retail investors and new institutional participants. The SPAC 3.0 model addresses this imbalance by leveling the playing field, ensuring equitable access to growth opportunities for all investors.
Shahal Khan, CEO of BurTech and Burkhan World Investments, commented:
"Our approach with BurTech reflects the principles of SPAC 3.0—a model that prioritizes investor confidence and long-term value creation. Blaize’s cutting-edge edge AI solutions exemplify the transformative potential of technology to improve lives and industries globally. At Burkhan, we remain steadfast in our vision to invest in technologies and solutions that have a positive and lasting impact on mankind and the future."
He continues, "This IPO underscores our commitment to investing in transformative technologies that utilize AI as a force for good. Blaize’s innovative edge AI solutions will have a profound impact on securing our schools, borders, and communities."
UAE Investment: A Strategic Driver for Global AI Leadership
In addition to funding from Burkhan World Investments, the IPO was bolstered by an investment from the Private Office of Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, reflecting the UAE's commitment to establishing itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence. The UAE’s vision extends beyond its borders, focusing on distributing AI technology across the GCC, Africa, and Asia in industries such as healthcare, smart infrastructure, and education.
This investment aligns with the UAE’s broader ambition to diversify its economy and lead the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Blaize’s edge AI solutions offer immense potential for addressing critical challenges and unlocking new opportunities in emerging markets.
"Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum’s investment exemplifies the UAE’s strategic focus on empowering innovation and fostering collaboration between global and regional leaders in AI technology," said Shahal Khan. "This deal strengthens the bridge between the US and the UAE innovation and the global AI ecosystems in order to bring leading technologies to the world."
Blaize’s edge AI solutions allow data processing at the source, enabling faster, more secure responses for applications such as real-time surveillance, autonomous security systems, and proactive safety measures.
Importantly, BWI’s investment was also based on a core belief that an important part of the AI ecosystem that needs to be developed is a visual learning model, and that Blaize’s technology could be the foundation for creating such a model, essential for robotics and autonomous vehicles.
Advancing Innovation in Alignment with Global AI Visionaries
The Blaize IPO comes at a critical juncture as the United States gears up for a new era of leadership under incoming President Donald J. Trump. President Trump has emphasized the strategic importance of AI for national and global competitiveness, aligning with his administration’s vision to foster innovation in transformative industries.
Blaize’s edge AI solutions uniquely position it to address critical societal needs highlighted in President Trump’s vision. The Blaize solutions are designed to enhance safety and security frameworks by enabling real-time, actionable intelligence at the "edge" where data is generated. By powering faster decision-making and greater operational efficiency, Blaize is uniquely equipped to address several critical issues such as school safety, border protection, and defense innovation.
This alignment also resonates with broader advancements led by global AI champions like NVIDIA, which has revolutionized AI acceleration, and Elon Musk, whose ventures highlight the transformative potential of AI in reshaping industries and addressing myriad societal challenges.
A Strategic and Forward-Thinking Investment
Blaize’s successful IPO through BurTech Acquisition Corporation reflects Burkhan World Investments’ commitment to identifying and supporting transformative technologies that drive global change. By delivering real-time intelligence and operational efficiency, Blaize is poised to make a positive and lasting impact on societies around the world.
Notes to Editors:
About Burkhan World Investments Burkhan World Investments is a single-family office based in Miami and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, dedicated to "Profit with Purpose" investing. With a focus on AI, technology, and infrastructure, Burkhan aims to foster sustainable innovation that drives meaningful impact across industries. Through strategic investments and partnerships, Burkhan is committed to advancing technologies that empower communities and shape a better future.
