Xsolla empowers Azerbaijan game developers with new incubation program

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Xsolla empowers Azerbaijan game developers with new incubation program

June 6, 2025•3 min

Xsolla is committed to supporting game studios of all sizes, everywhere. On May 12, that commitment took root in Azerbaijan with the official launch of a new incubation program to accelerate the growth of 10 local game studios. This milestone follows the announcement of the broader Xsolla StarNest Academy and Incubator Program, introduced in this article from December 2024. Now, that vision is becoming reality. Developed in partnership with the Innovation and Digital Development Agency of Azerbaijan (IDDA) and local ecosystem builder StarNest, the incubation program is a hands-on, three-month initiative designed to equip local gaming studios with the tools, knowledge, and global connections they need to find success. It's part of a larger strategy to connect Azerbaijani talent to the global games economy and provide meaningful access to international markets, business models, and investment opportunities.

About the program

This is the first time local studios are participating in a program of this scale, with direct exposure to international standards and global publishing networks, marking a major milestone in strengthening Azerbaijan’s game development landscape and empowering local talent to grow on a global scale. The program covers:

Structuring to international standards. Participants will learn to run game studios using proven global business models.
Guidance from 40+ global experts. International mentors with years of industry experience will work closely with each studio.
Direct access to global publishers. Creating real opportunities for partnerships and deals.
Financial support for top performers. For the first time in Azerbaijan, three out of ten studios will receive funding between $30,000 and $60,000 to help bring their visions to life.

In addition to business and technical development, studios will gain practical insight into pitching, fundraising, and long-term product strategy, skills that are critical for scaling beyond the local market. This program builds on the foundation set by Xsolla StarNest Academy, which is training 90 aspiring developers with practical skills and industry mentorship. Together, these efforts are laying the groundwork for a self-sustaining, globally competitive gaming ecosystem in Azerbaijan.

Creating a foundation for long-term growth

This incubation program is a long-term investment in the future of game development in the region. By creating structured pathways for education, studio acceleration, and financial support, Xsolla, IDDA, and StarNest are working to establish Azerbaijan as a key player in the international games industry. It’s also a reflection of Xsolla’s broader mission: to remove barriers and empower developers everywhere, from emerging markets to established hubs. Rooted in collaboration and driven by a shared vision for innovation, this initiative lays the groundwork for a sustainable, globally connected gaming ecosystem. To reinforce our commitment further, the Xsolla team is also exploring the establishment of its regional headquarters in Central Asia in Baku. This hub would not only serve as a regional base of operations but also as a technology center focused on advancing and supporting our industry-leading solutions. It will deepen our connection to the local ecosystem and support long-term, scalable growth across Central Asia. Together with the Xsolla StarNest partnership, these efforts signal a new chapter for the gaming sector in Azerbaijan. Stay tuned as we follow their journeys and share more insights from the front lines of this region’s game industry expansion.