Kerala Blasters FC (KBFC), one of India’s most iconic football clubs, has announced a strategic partnership with the Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB), India’s premier sports management institute.
The affiliation aims to nurture the next-generation of sports professionals by combining GISB’s industry-designed, experiential education with KBFC’s deep expertise in the evolving Indian football ecosystem. Students will benefit from first-hand industry exposure, while the club will play an instrumental role in mentoring and shaping future talent across various domains of sports management.
“At Kerala Blasters, we believe in investing not just in talent on the pitch, but also in the future which will shape Indian football. Our partnership with GISB is a step towards building a stronger ecosystem—one that nurtures the next generation of sports professionals and leaders. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a more progressive, innovative, and inclusive footballing future,” said Abhik Chatterjee, CEO, Kerala Blasters FC.
As part of this collaboration, GISB students will gain hands-on experience through real-time projects, mentorship from KBFC professionals, and exclusive internship opportunities within the club. Additionally, specially curated learning programs—co-developed by GISB and powered by KBFC’s on-ground experience—will be made accessible to young learners and fans across India. These programs will bring practical, industry-led education to the forefront of sports learning in the country.
“Our partnership with Kerala Blasters FC is a significant step in shaping the future of Indian sport. By bringing together GISB’s academic excellence and the experience of one of India’s top football clubs, we aim to equip future sports professionals—especially those emerging from the passionate Kerala football ecosystem, with opportunities needed to become the next generation of leaders and managers,” said Gaurav Modwel, Chancellor, GISB.
This partnership also represents a shared commitment to engaging and empowering the passionate fan base of Kerala Blasters FC, one of the most devoted football communities in India. Through tailored learning initiatives, fan-focused programs, and digital education experiences, GISB and KBFC aim to bring sports education closer to the fans. By transforming loyal supporters into informed participants in the sports industry, this collaboration opens new pathways for fans to transition from the stands to meaningful roles behind the scenes—ultimately strengthening the ecosystem that fuels Indian football.
For the thousands of young Indians dreaming of turning their passion for sport into their profession, this collaboration offers more than just an education—it provides access to the inner workings of the sports business. From marketing and fan engagement to analytics and club operations, students will get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how elite football organisations function.
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About the Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB)
The Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB) is a cutting-edge sports management institute designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. With an experiential learning approach, GISB focuses on equipping students with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and direct industry engagement to enhance employability and drive impact in the sports sector.
At the core of GISB’s offerings is its flagship Post-Graduate Program in Sports Management—a full-time, immersive, and industry-focused course tailored to the business of sport. Designed by global sports industry veterans, the program ensures that students gain not only essential tools, insights, and expertise but also unparalleled access to industry employers and professional networks.
Admissions for the 2025 cohort are now open in Mumbai and Bengaluru. For more information, visit www.gisbindia.com
