Bhuvneshwar Kumar Launches India’s First Sportstech Accelerator
Indian cricketer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has partnered with the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow’s Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML-EIC) and LegaXy to launch India’s first accelerator program dedicated to Sportstech, eSports, and Gaming startups.
The accelerator, based at IIM Lucknow, will nurture early-stage ventures focused on sports technology, eSports, gaming, and new-age media – sectors experiencing rapid growth within India’s digital economy. LegaXy will leverage its expertise in athlete management and sports branding, while IIML-EIC will provide mentorship, incubation support, and connections to investors. This initiative arrives as India’s online gaming market is projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2028, according to a report by Statista.
A cohort of ten startups will be selected for the inaugural program, with applications opening in early 2026. Chosen ventures will receive guidance on seed funding, go-to-market strategies, and scaling their businesses, alongside access to industry experts and sports organizations. “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,” Kumar said. Yamini Bhushan Pandey, Managing Director and CEO of IIM Lucknow EIC, added, “Through 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.”
The partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic research and market opportunities, fostering innovation and strengthening India’s position in the global sportainment arena. IIM Lucknow’s EIC has a strong track record of supporting successful startups across various sectors. Amitesh Shah, Founder and CEO of LegaXy, highlighted that the collaboration represents “a powerful fusion of academia, entrepreneurship, and sporting excellence.”
Officials stated that the first cohort will be announced following a nationwide evaluation process led by LegaXy and IIML-EIC.
