LegaXy and IIM Lucknow EIC Launch Sportstech Accelerator to Fuel Innovation in Indian Sports & Gaming
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A new accelerator program,a partnership between LegaXy Global Ventures and the Incubator and Entrepreneurship Center (EIC) at the Indian institute of Management Lucknow (IIML),aims to revolutionize the indian sports,gaming,and esports landscape. The program will provide startups with mentorship, incubation support, and access to investors, fostering innovation in athlete management, sports branding, and media innovation.Applications are slated to open in early 2026.
Partnership Details & Program Focus
The collaboration leverages legaxy’s expertise in sports and entertainment with IIML-EIC’s robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. The accelerator will specifically target startups developing technologies to:
* Improve Athletic Performance: This includes areas like wearable technology, data analytics for training, and biomechanical analysis.
* Enhance Fan Engagement: Focusing on immersive experiences, interactive platforms, and personalized content for sports fans.
* Strengthen India’s Gaming & Esports Ecosystem: Supporting startups building innovative games,esports platforms,and related technologies.
“The game is changing, both on and off the field. Initiatives like this accelerator will fuel innovation, helping startups transform sports, gaming, and fan experiences while positioning India as a global leader in sportainment,” stated Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a prominent Indian cricketer and LegaXy advisor LegaXy Global Ventures.
Program Structure & Support
A curated cohort of ten startups will be selected for the inaugural program. Successful applicants will receive extensive support, including:
* Seed Funding Guidance: Assistance in securing early-stage investment.
* Go-to-Market Strategies: Expert advice on launching and scaling their products.
* Business Scaling Support: Resources to help startups expand their operations.
* Industry Expert Access: Mentorship from leaders in the sports, technology, and investment sectors.
* Connections to Sports Organizations: Opportunities to collaborate with established sports entities.
Yamini Bhushan Pandey, Managing Director and CEO of IIM Lucknow EIC, emphasized the program’s goal: “Thru this Sportstech Acceleration Program, we aim to empower startups that are redefining the intersection of sports, technology, and new-age media, enabling them to scale globally with the right mentorship, market access, and investor support.” IIM Lucknow EIC
India’s Growing Sportstech Landscape
India’s sports and gaming industries are experiencing notable growth. A recent report by KPMG estimates the Indian online gaming industry to be valued at over $2.6 billion in FY23 and is projected to reach $7.5 billion by FY28. This growth is fueled by increasing smartphone penetration, affordable data costs, and a young, digitally-savvy population.
Amitesh Shah, Founder and CEO of LegaXy, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership: “This partnership represents a powerful fusion of academia, entrepreneurship, and sporting excellence. Together, we’re building an ecosystem that will accelerate innovation and help shape the future of SportsTech, eSports, and Gaming in India.”
Key Takeaways
* New Accelerator: LegaXy and IIML-EIC are launching a Sportstech accelerator program.
* Focus Areas: The program will support startups in athlete management, fan engagement, and gaming/esports.
* application Launch: Applications open in early 2026.
* Comprehensive Support: Selected startups will receive mentorship, funding guidance, and industry access.
* growing Market: The accelerator aims to capitalize on the rapid growth of the Indian sports and gaming industries.
This accelerator program is poised to play a crucial role in fostering innovation and solidifying India’s position as a key player in the global sportainment arena. By bridging the gap between research and market opportunities,LegaXy and IIML-EIC are creating a platform for the next generation of sports technology leaders.