Indian VC Firm Invests $42M Fund in Sports Tech and Gaming Ventures

The gaming industry is experiencing exponential growth worldwide, with projections estimating its value to reach US$321 billion by 2026. India, in particular, has emerged as a significant player in this landscape, boasting the largest gaming market globally. With a staggering 568 million gamers and over 9.5 billion gaming app downloads in 2023 alone, India's gaming industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and popularity.

In line with this trend, major players in the Indian gaming sector are gearing up for expansion on a global scale. Nazara Technologies, a leading gaming company in India, has allocated a substantial sum of US$100 million for its global expansion initiatives. Additionally, venture capital firm Centre Court Capital is poised to capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities within the gaming and sports tech sectors in India. The firm is launching a US$42 million fund dedicated to investing in projects within these industries, underscoring the significant potential and investor interest in India's gaming ecosystem.

These strategic investments highlight the growing recognition of India as a powerhouse in the gaming industry and underscore the country's potential to become a global hub for gaming innovation and development. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve and expand, India's vibrant gaming community and market dynamics position it as a key player in shaping the future of the gaming industry on a global scale.

Centre Court Capital's fund is poised to support tech-driven startups that are revolutionizing the landscape of sports participation and consumption in India. Founded by Mustafa Ghouse, a former professional tennis player, and Alok Samtaney, who brings extensive experience in private equity investing to the table, the fund aims to identify and nurture innovative ventures that are reshaping the sports industry in India.

Backed by prominent investors, Centre Court Capital has secured support from the Sajjan Jindal Family Trust, a significant investor in the sports division of Indian conglomerate JSW. Additionally, the fund counts on the backing of the Small Industries Development Bank of India, PremjiInvest, USK Capital, and several other corporate sports investors.

With a focus on leveraging technology to transform sports experiences and engagement in India, Centre Court Capital is well-positioned to catalyze the growth and evolution of the sports ecosystem in the country. By supporting startups that are driving innovation and disruption in sports-related technologies and services, the fund aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports in India and beyond.