Mumbai – Cricket gaming startup Hitwicket, joins forces with the Indian School of Business (ISB) one of India’s premier business institutes, as a strategic partner for the ISB GameX Accelerator program. This program is designed to nurture talent, fuel innovation and equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge required to thrive in the competitive gaming landscape. Through a tailored curriculum and hands-on mentorship, participants have an opportunity to gain invaluable insights and support to turn their gaming ideas into reality.
The Market Opportunity
Traditionally, business schools have mostly focused on established sectors such as consultancy and finance. However, this initiative aims to capitalise on the booming esports industry and reshape the landscape of career options in India. The online gaming industry plays a crucial role in the Digital India vision and initiative. The Prime Minister's aim to position India as a leading global gaming hub has gained renewed focus following his recent interaction with the country's top gamers. The online gaming industry in India has seen a rapid expansion of 28% CAGR between FY20 and FY23. Projections indicate further growth to Rs 33,243 crore by FY28, with a sustained 15% CAGR. The gaming and esports sector not only draws considerable foreign and domestic investments but also creates substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Earlier this year, veteran cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle backed Hitwicket as a strategic investor, further validating the potential of esports in the country. Harsha Bhogle, a familiar voice in cricket for over 40 years, is not just a commentator but also a management guru and an MBA graduate. His decision to join Hitwicket as a strategic investor underscores the significant opportunities within the esports and gaming industry. This partnership between Hitwicket and ISB marks a significant step forward, fostering a thriving esports ecosystem in India.
Hitwicket co-founders Keerti Singh and Kashyap Reddy expressed their excitement about strategic partnership "The landscape of the Indian gaming industry has undergone a dramatic shift since we started Hitwicket. Back then, resources and support for aspiring game developers were scarce. ISB is pioneering support for the gaming sector, recognising its immense potential and fostering innovation and growth in this dynamic field through this program which will be a game changer. This collaboration with ISB allows us to support the next generation of gaming leaders. We are excited to be part of this journey and look forward to empowering the next generation of gaming leaders and propelling India to the global esports ecosystem."
"We're thrilled to have Hitwicket as our strategic partner for the GameX Accelerator Program. Their deep understanding of the Indian gaming market makes them a valuable partner in nurturing the next generation of esports entrepreneurs. This collaboration will equip up-and-coming gaming leaders and the future of India's gaming industry with the skills and resources needed to drive innovation, shape industry trends, and contribute to India's thriving gaming ecosystem,” commented ISB director at I-Venture Saumya Kumar.
GameX Accelerator is a three-month program designed to be a launchpad for aspiring gaming and esports entrepreneurs, providing participants with specialised business and technological resources, mentorship from seasoned professionals, fundraising guidance, and access to a vibrant gaming community.
