The Problem with Traditional VC Funding in Gaming—and Jetapult’s Solution

PocketGamer.biz Podcast

Great gaming investors bring more than just cash to the table—they offer strategy, trust, and a shared vision for success. Jetapult hits the mark on all three and, like its name, gives studios the fuel they need to rocket toward sustainable growth, focusing on empowerment rather than just rapid expansion. Peggy Anne Salz and Brian Baglow sit down with Jetapult Co-Founder and CEO Sharan Tulsiani to explore how Jetapult’s partnership-driven approach sets it apart from traditional VCs. Drawing from his experience as the former Head of Google Play Games in India, Australia, and New Zealand—and as the creator of Google’s Indie Games Accelerator—Sharan shares how Jetapult helps studios leverage data, cultural insights, and operational expertise to scale smarter. He also offers rare insights into what investors really want to hear from studios during pitches and how by prioritizing long-term stability and creative freedom, Jetapult ensures developers remain firmly in the driver’s seat. Sharan also dives into specific examples, like helping one studio cut production time by 70% with AI-driven tools and achieving #1 on app store charts by focusing on culturally resonant gameplay.

CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Intro

03:28 - Jetapult's unique approach

08:51 - Rejecting the Founder "hero story"

11:10 - Is your studio a fit for Jetapult?

18:28 - Why Jetapult invests more than cash

26:54 - How much growth does Jetapult deliver?

33:33 - Peggy and Brian on AI

38:22 - Favourite games Q&A

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