When we started Second Quest, we knew we were taking the road less travelled. Building a premium simulation game studio from India isn’t the most conventional of ideas but Elevate 2024 helped us realise that sometimes the unconventional paths lead to the most exciting destinations.
Elevate 2024 is a flagship initiative by the Government of Karnataka aimed at identifying and nurturing innovative startups across various sectors. For us, it’s been more than just a capital grant — it’s been an incredible learning experience and a massive vote of confidence in our vision for UGC content ecosystems through simulation games
Our journey through Elevate 2024 involved multiple rounds of pitching to industry stalwarts, evaluations, and deep dives into our business and creative vision. The process not only sharpened our storytelling and pitch making, but also allowed us to think more strategically about how we build, grow, and sustain our work. Through mentoring sessions and direct feedback from the jury, we walked away with invaluable insights.
A Moment to Cherish: Official Recognition
The highlight, of course, was being selected as a winner and receiving the Elevate 2024 non-dilutive grant in aid for our debut game, Model Trains. We’re currently working hard to complete our PoC milestone, and the support and structure offered through this program has been instrumental.
We had the honour of attending the Elevate 2024 felicitation ceremony, where our team members Shubhank and Yadu received the trophy from the Hon’ble Minister Shri Priyank Kharge. It was a moment of immense pride and validation for our entire team.
Connecting and Collaborating: Building Community
ABAI‘s role in this journey has been incredible. As our sector mentor, they are helping us shape not just the execution of our game, but also how we grow as a sustainable and scalable venture. We look forward to working closely with them through the rest of the program.
It was great fun to participate at the first meetup of the AVGC-XR winners of Elevate 2024 at ABAI CoE (Centre of Excellence for AVGC). It was energising to meet fellow founders and engage in honest conversations about our shared challenges and dreams. The ABAI team did a fantastic job explaining tranche milestones, documentation requirements, and how we can support one another as a community.
As we continue building Model Trains, Elevate 2024 has given us a strong foundation, and a powerful sense of community among other startups in Karnataka’s AVGC ecosystem.
If you’re curious about our progress, we’ve started building in public. Check out our early product updates here:
🎥 Devlog 1 – Tracks & Bogies
🎥 Devlog 2 – Content Pipelines & Modding
🚂 Want to be part of shaping the future of Model Trains? Play an early prototype of Model Trains and help shape the game with your feedback at beta.secondquest.games.
Until next time,
Shagufta
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