WinZO has emerged as India’s largest social gaming platform. With 175 million users and a valuation of 2360 CR, it is a testament to entrepreneurial brilliance. This incredible journey began with Saumya Singh Rathore, a determined woman from Uttar Pradesh. Let’s get to know more about this Inspiring Startup Story.
Watch our Podcast | The Crazy Careers Podcast
Early Career and a Quest for More
Born in 1988 in a small city in Uttar Pradesh, Saumya had a brilliant academic record. After completing her Master’s at the University of Manchester, she joined KPMG in 2009. Her corporate career flourished at Bennett Coleman and Co. Ltd. and Times Network. Despite her success, Saumya’s childhood curiosity to try something new never faded.
In 2015, she joined ZO Rooms, an early-stage travel startup, as Chief of the Core team. She played a crucial role in the brand’s growth and expansion. However, after the Oyo-ZO merger in 2016, she sought fresh opportunities to innovate.
The Birth of WinZO – An Inspiring Startup Story
By 2017, India’s gaming industry had grown significantly. Saumya identified a gap: Tier 2 and 3 audiences lacked incentivized platforms. She partnered with her colleague Paavan to create a solution. Together, they launched WinZO, a vernacular gaming platform offering real-money rewards.
Building the WinZO Business Model
WinZO’s idea was simple but innovative. Saumya tested a model where users paid small fees to participate in games. She included local favorites like Cricket and Carrom in regional languages. This desi touch worked wonders. In just one year, WinZO reached 5 million users and raised 3.3 CR from Kalaari Capital.
Scaling to New Heights – WinZO’s Inspiring Startup Story
WinZO’s user base grew rapidly. By 2019, it had 20 million users and 200 million monthly transactions. Saumya’s mantra was clear: every user should bring another user. WinZO raised 35.4 CR that year, accelerating its growth.
Partnering with Developers and Raising Funds
WinZO’s partnerships with indie game developers expanded its offerings. By 2020, it hosted 100 games in 10 languages. It raised 157 CR, reaching a valuation of 455 CR. However, Saumya’s vision for WinZO aimed even higher.
The Big Breakthroughs of an Inspiring Startup Story
In 2022, WinZO made bold moves to increase visibility. It partnered with cricket legend MS Dhoni as a brand ambassador. Additionally, collaborations with influencers like Carry Minati and Bhuvan Bam boosted its reach. With these efforts, WinZO scaled to 50 million users and raised 487 CR, achieving a valuation of 2360 CR.
WinZO Today
WinZO now stands as India’s largest social gaming platform. It boasts 175 million users, 5 billion monthly transactions, and 12 regional languages. The platform has become a household name in the gaming industry.
Saumya Singh Rathore’s journey with WinZO is a remarkable startup story. Her innovative ideas and perseverance have redefined gaming in India. WinZO’s success inspires countless entrepreneurs, proving that bold visions can create transformative businesses.