PhysicsWallah, the prominent edtech unicorn, is making headlines again with the launch of its ‘PW School of Startups’ and a substantial $11.9 million (INR 100 crore) fund.
This new venture aims to empower over 100 startups with vital resources, including ideation programs, practical training, mentorship, and capital-raising opportunities.
The PW SOS will offer three tailored programs to cater to various stages of an entrepreneurial journey. Aarambh, a 5-day offline program, is designed for school students, college students, and early professionals, providing them with access to essential resources and expert advice. Prarambh is a comprehensive 5-month offline program intended for college students, early professionals, small business owners, and second-generation entrepreneurs. Lastly, Hopes Alive is a free 5-month hybrid program for seed-funded or bootstrapped startups across India, offering support and guidance to help them grow.
Founded by Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari in 2020, PhysicsWallah achieved unicorn status in 2022 after securing $100 million in funding from Westbridge and GSV Ventures. The company has since expanded into offline education and acquired several startups, solidifying its position in the competitive edtech landscape alongside rivals like BYJU’S, Vedantu, Unacademy, and Allen.
Pandey is optimistic about the potential of startups from Tier 2 and 3 cities, highlighting the need for better guidance and a supportive community. This initiative comes at a crucial time for the Indian edtech sector, which has been grappling with a funding crunch, high cash burn, and significant layoffs. Despite these challenges, the sector is projected to grow to $29 billion by 2030, reflecting ongoing opportunities and potential for innovation.