Edtech Unicorn PhysicsWallah Begins School of Startups for 100 startups with $5M Fund

PhysicsWallah (PW), the edtech unicorn, has launched the PW School of Startups (SOS) to empower aspiring entrepreneurs by transforming their ideas into successful ventures. This initiative, part of the PW Foundation, includes a $5 million fund to support at least 100 startups over the next five years. PW SOS will provide a platform offering cost-effective programs, practical training, strategic mentorship, and access to capital, as highlighted in a company statement.

Alakh Pandey, Founder and CEO of PW, emphasized the significant potential of startups emerging from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, stating, “Advancing Bharat’s startup ecosystem can greatly contribute to our nation’s economic growth.” He noted that while these entrepreneurs have innovative business ideas, they often face challenges due to a lack of guidance and a supportive community.

India, with the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, has generated one million jobs through startups in 2023, according to this year’s Economic Survey. Notably, 48% of these startups originate from Tier II and beyond cities, addressing issues in sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

PW SOS offers three tailored programs—Aarambh, Prarambh, and Hopes Alive—catering to different stages of the entrepreneurial journey. Aarambh is a five-day offline program designed for school students, college students, and early professionals. Prarambh is a five-month offline program for college students, early professionals, small family business owners, second-generation entrepreneurs, and social impact enthusiasts. This program focuses on business model development, branding, and budgeting to help refine ideas and manage startups effectively.

Hopes Alive, a free five-month hybrid program for seed-funded or bootstrapped startups across Bharat, provides financial resources, expert counseling, and connections to help participants scale their ventures and achieve long-term success. Over the next 12 months, PW SOS plans to enroll 1,000 aspiring entrepreneurs in Aarambh and 100 budding entrepreneurs in Prarambh.

Prateek Maheshwari, Co-founder of PW, remarked, “Through PW SOS, we aim to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with access to mentorship from seasoned startup founders and key figures who have successfully scaled organizations.”