Startup Contest Q&A w/ Vladimir Malakchi, CEO & Managing Partner of Xanada Investments

What inspired Xanada Investments to create this startup competition in the gaming industry?

The necessity for this initiative arose from the modern market conditions and the challenges faced by startups. We observed that many startups with incredible potential struggle due to a lack of resources and guidance. This competition was born from the need to bridge that gap and provide a solution that goes beyond just capital.

By creating our own investment initiatives, we can set the terms and provide a prize that offers more than just funding. Many competitions offer financial support, but startups often lack the guidance on how to effectively use that money. Our competition is unique because it not only provides financial backing but also offers a platform for continuous learning and development. This ensures that winning startups have the tools and knowledge to maximize their potential.

Moreover, there are numerous deserving startups that often go unnoticed and lack the opportunity to showcase their capabilities. This competition is an opportunity for startups to gain visibility, connect with industry leaders, and receive the strategic consulting they need to succeed.

Q: What specific goals does Xanada Investments aim to achieve through launching this competition?

Through this competition, our main goal is to give promising startups in the gaming industry the spotlight they deserve and the support they need to grow. We seek out the best ideas, provide them with resources, and help them scale effectively. This includes funding, expert advice, and networking opportunities to turn innovative concepts into market-ready solutions.

We are ready to showcase that working with investment funds offers more than just capital. It’s about having a team of experts guiding you, sharing valuable insights, and helping you grow your business. This competition is a chance to demonstrate the benefits of structured investment and the real value it brings.

Xanada Investments’s core goal in this competition is to support talented managers, small teams, and entrepreneurs with great ideas and experience who might not know where to go next. Whether they’ve had a business that didn’t work out or are looking to scale, we want to show them there’s a path forward. By highlighting these success stories, we aim to inspire others and demonstrate the transformative power of strategic investment and mentorship. We’ve already received 20 applications in the past week, indicating strong interest and potential.

How does Xanada Investments plan to support the competition winner beyond financial rewards?

At Xanada Investments, our commitment to the competition winner extends far beyond mere financial backing. We provide a powerhouse of resources and expertise designed to make long-term success. For operators, our elite marketing team, adept at managing multimillion-dollar budgets, will craft impactful campaigns that drive user engagement and maximize ROI. For providers, we open doors to hundreds of casinos ready to integrate innovative solutions, leveraging our deep industry insights to streamline processes and optimize game design and user engagement.

Talking about B2B startups, we excel at building robust sales departments from the ground up, utilizing our vast experience to drive revenue growth and establish sustainable business models. Our strategic consulting, led by industry leaders with a proven track record of scaling over 20 iGaming companies, provides hands-on guidance to refine business

Certainly, extensive media coverage will elevate the winner’s visibility in both B2B and B2C markets, making the growth process engaging as the industry and public witness the project’s progress in real time. This comprehensive support system ensures the winner not only survives but thrives, setting new benchmarks in the competitive iGaming landscape.

What are the conditions for participating in the Xanada Startup Contest?

We are looking for leaders who know how to work in the industry, achieve results, and manage finances effectively. We invite individuals who have a clear understanding of their strengths and potential. Our primary consideration is the team we will be working with. We want to collaborate with those who demonstrate strong leadership and the ability to navigate the complexities of their industry.

If you have a solid team and a well-thought-out approach to your business, we welcome you to apply. We are interested in startups that show promise and have a clear vision for their future.

The Xanada Startup Contest is open to businesses at various stages of development, including Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A. We welcome startups from different regions and sectors, focusing on the quality of the team, their experience, and their readiness to bring their ideas to market. Our aim is to support those who are mature enough to leverage the resources and guidance provided to achieve significant growth.

Currently, the fund has received 80 applications, and we anticipate even more with the launch of the contest. This increased interest will motivate startups to participate and prepare their pitches diligently.

What advice would you give to startups to ensure they advance to the next round?

To ensure your startup advances to the next round, good preparation and strategic presentation are key. Start by thoroughly preparing all necessary documentation. Investors expect to see a solid business plan and detailed financial projections that outline a clear path to profitability. Understanding your market, competition, and business model is crucial. When you walk into a pitch meeting, you should be ready to answer any question confidently, demonstrating your deep understanding of your business and its potential.

Having a comprehensive understanding of the investment process is also essential. Securing investment is not just about having a great idea; it’s about proving that you can turn that idea into a profitable business. Highlight realistic and achievable milestones, as investors look for startups with a pragmatic approach that can execute plans effectively. Remember, a million-dollar investment should ideally generate a significant return, and investors need to be convinced that you have a viable strategy to achieve this.

And the main piece of advice is to manage your expectations and maintain professionalism. Be realistic about what you can achieve and avoid overpromising. Ensure that your pitch materials are polished and convey your vision effectively. Demonstrating a clear, strategic plan and showcasing your team’s capability to execute it can significantly boost your chances of advancing to the next round and securing the necessary investment for your startup’s growth.

To apply for the Xanada Startup Contest, please submit the following form.