LogInThe initiative aims to provide Azerbaijani developers, designers, and studios with resources to succeed globally.
At Gamesummit Winter Edition 2024 in Baku, Xsolla, in collaboration with the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA) and StarNest, unveiled the Xsolla StarNest Academy and Incubator Program, a new initiative aiming to empower local talent and position Azerbaijan as a rising force in the gaming industry. Se to roll out in 2025, the program's goal is to provide Azerbaijani developers, designers, and studios with resources to succeed globally.
“This collaboration opens up extensive opportunities for implementing joint projects that will drive the development of Azerbaijan's gaming sector,” said Yevgeniya Bikmurzina, Head of IDDA’s Innovation Ecosystem Department.
The success of the StarNest initiative is built on the strength of its partnerships. StarNest will secure a state-of-the-art facility for the Academy, creating an environment conducive to growth and learning. Meanwhile, IDDA’s strategic oversight will align the initiative with Azerbaijan’s national goals for digital transformation, driving innovation across the country’s tech landscape.
Rytis Joseph Jan, SVP of Global Strategic Partnerships at Xsolla, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “This partnership represents a significant milestone for Xsolla as we collaborate with Azerbaijani leaders to unlock the region’s potential. By combining our global expertise with the visionary leadership of our partners, we aim to empower the next generation of talent in Azerbaijan and drive meaningful innovation with global impact.”
With plans to establish a regional headquarters in Baku, Xsolla is reaffirming its commitment to the region. The headquarters would serve as a hub for innovation and technology, further supporting game developers in Central Asia. The StarNest program aims to inspire the broader community and spark sustained growth in the gaming sector by creating pathways for Azerbaijani talent to showcase their work on the global stage.
As the program takes shape, it promises to redefine opportunities for aspiring developers in Azerbaijan, marking a significant chapter in the country’s digital transformation journey. This initiative, built on collaboration and a shared vision, sets the foundation for a thriving gaming ecosystem with a global reach.