KRAFTON Plans to Incubate 6-10 Indian Gaming Startups
Three points you will get to know in this article:
- Excluding gambling and startups focused on real-money gaming will not be considered.
- The program will aid 6-10 startups annually for 6-12 months.
- It will provide selected startups with funding ranging from $50K to $150K.
KRAFTON, the game development major, has introduced an innovative initiative — the KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator (KIGI) — aimed at fostering the rapidly expanding gaming landscape in India.
Spanning a period of 6 to 12 months, this program is dedicated to supporting approximately 6 to 10 startups annually. These selected startups will not only receive financial backing ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 but will also benefit from KRAFTON’s extensive expertise.
Tailored for early-stage startups, even those in the conceptual phase, this endeavor by the gaming giant encompasses more than just monetary support. It extends a helping hand through guidance, mentorship, and exclusive access to KRAFTON’s rich reservoir of resources, including invaluable tools like data analytics and comprehensive market research.
In essence, KIGI is not just an incubator; it’s a dynamic platform fostering the growth of promising gaming ventures from their inception, embodying KRAFTON’s commitment to nurturing innovation in the gaming ecosystem.
“KRAFTON is all set to roll out its exciting program, where they’re on the lookout for startups that are eager to team up and learn from the best — that’s us! If you’re waving the flag for mentorship, eyeing future funding, and keen on investments, you’ve caught our attention. Just to keep things clear, we’re not diving into the world of gambling or real-money gaming-focused startups.
In the words of Sean Hyunil, the CEO of KRAFTON India, “This program is our way of turbocharging game development in the country. We’re pumped about nurturing the next wave of gaming superstars. Think of it as not just a program, but a mentorship journey, aligning with the government’s vision of upskilling India’s talent and boosting employability. Let’s game on and grow together!”
At KIGI, those lucky enough to make the cut will be guided by big shots in the gaming world—think top-notch minds from South Korea and India. The dream team includes Dave Curd, the creative genius behind PUBG Studios, and Harns Kim, the game maestro from KRAFTON.
Anuj Sahani, the head honcho at KIGI, spilled the beans, saying, “Our program is like a supercharged boost for budding developers, designers, and creators. We’re here to hook them up with all the tools and wisdom they need to turn their brainwaves into actual games. Plus, we’re totally vibing with the Indian government’s plan to supercharge the startup scene. Get ready for some seriously awesome game-changers!”
Upon program completion, participating startups stand the chance to see their products go to market, secure venture capital backing from external investors, and potentially receive equity investment from KRAFTON.
Established in 2007, the South Korean gaming powerhouse KRAFTON encompasses a diverse portfolio, including PUBG STUDIOS, Bluehole Studio, RisingWings, Striking Distance Studios, Dreamotion, Unknown Worlds, 5minlab, Neon Giant, KRAFTON Montréal Studio, and ReLU Games.
The organization expressed its commitment to uplift the gaming startup scene in India, having already injected more than $140 million into various Indian startup ventures.
Just recently, after a rigorous three-month audit process, the company secured full approval from the Center to run its battle royale game, Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), within the country.
KRAFTON’s foray into fostering the Indian gaming landscape through the KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator (KIGI) is a groundbreaking initiative. By offering not just financial support but also mentorship, guidance, and exclusive access to resources, KIGI emerges as a dynamic platform dedicated to nurturing innovation in the gaming ecosystem. As KRAFTON propels the next wave of gaming talent, the program’s potential impact extends beyond startups, aligning with the government’s vision for upskilling and boosting employability in India.
