Netflix Partners with IICT and FICCI to Boost Creative Tech Talent in India

Streaming giant Netflix has announced a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) and FICCI to nurture the next generation of creative-technology professionals in India. The collaboration aims to strengthen India’s AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality) ecosystem and provide students with scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on experience.

Collaboration Formalized at FICCI Frames 2025

The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the 25th edition of FICCI Frames, India’s premier media and entertainment forum. The MoU outlines Netflix’s commitment to supporting creative technology education and developing talent capable of driving innovation in the country’s entertainment sector.

Scholarships Through Netflix Fund for Creative Equity

Under the agreement, Netflix will leverage its Netflix Fund for Creative Equity to offer scholarships to select students identified in collaboration with IICT. This fund is dedicated to creating opportunities for underrepresented talent in the media and entertainment sector, aiming to foster diversity and inclusivity in India’s AVGC-XR industry.

Netflix’s Role in IICT National Councils

As part of the collaboration, Netflix will participate in three IICT national councils:

• R&D Council

• Academic Council

• Industry Development Council

These councils bring together leading voices from academia, industry, and policy, providing guidance and shaping India’s AVGC-XR ecosystem. Netflix’s involvement is expected to bridge gaps between academic training and industry demands, ensuring that students are industry-ready.

Strengthening India’s AVGC Sector

Mahima Kaul, Director of Global Affairs at Netflix India, emphasized the partnership’s goal: “By nurturing world-class talent, IICT aims to serve as a catalyst for India's digital economy, empowering youth and enhancing the nation's creative capabilities. Together, we aim to equip every aspiring creator with the tools and opportunities to drive innovation in entertainment.”

The initiative is expected to create a robust talent pipeline for India’s Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and XR industries, which are rapidly expanding in domestic and international markets.

Bridging Academia and Industry

Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO of IICT, highlighted the significance of hands-on learning opportunities: “By providing our students with practical experience, mentorship, and exposure to global best practices, we are equipping the next generation of storytellers and technologists to thrive in India’s dynamic AVGC-XR ecosystem.”

The collaboration is seen as a major step in aligning academic curricula with industry requirements, ensuring students graduate with skills that meet global standards.

FICCI’s Role in Facilitating the Collaboration

Munjal Shroff, Chairman of the FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, added: “FICCI is proud to facilitate this collaboration, which will not only strengthen India’s position as a global hub for creative technologies but also nurture future-ready talent, drive innovation, and create pathways for sustainable growth in the sector.”

FICCI’s involvement ensures that the partnership receives guidance from industry leaders, helping to bridge policy, education, and practical industry exposure for emerging talent.

Benefits for Students and Industry

Through this collaboration, students will gain access to:

• Scholarships and financial support from Netflix

• Mentorship programs from industry experts

• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies in AVGC-XR

• Exposure to global standards and best practices

For the industry, the initiative provides a steady stream of skilled professionals capable of contributing to India’s position as a global hub for creative technologies.

Conclusion

The Netflix-IICT-FICCI partnership marks a significant milestone in India’s creative technology landscape. By combining financial support, mentorship, and industry integration, the collaboration is poised to empower the next generation of storytellers and technologists, strengthen India’s AVGC-XR sector, and foster innovation in digital entertainment.