In the heart of Odisha, a remarkable entrepreneurial journey began in 2018 with a modest investment of just ₹30,000. Today, that venture—Skyy Skill Academy—has grown into a powerhouse EdTech startup boasting an impressive annual turnover of ₹10 crore. The man behind this success is Himansu Sekhar Panda, an engineer-turned-entrepreneur who dared to dream big and execute even bigger.
The Vision Behind Skyy Skill Academy
Founded with a mission to bridge the skill gap in India, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, Skyy Skill Academy was born out of Himansu’s desire to make quality, job-oriented education accessible to youth from all walks of life. Unlike many EdTech platforms that focus on urban demographics, Skyy Skill Academy targets underrepresented students, offering them industry-relevant training in areas such as IT, digital marketing, finance, and communication skills.
The Academy’s hybrid model—combining online modules with offline support—has made it especially effective in rural and semi-urban regions of Odisha and beyond.
Building an EdTech Empire with ₹30,000
What makes Himansu’s story inspiring is not just the numbers, but the resilience and vision that fueled the startup’s growth. Starting from a small rented space and a skeletal team, Skyy Skill Academy focused on creating impact rather than chasing valuation. The startup’s initial success came through government partnerships and corporate training programs, which helped build credibility and generate steady revenue streams.
Over time, the company expanded its reach across multiple Indian states, collaborating with colleges, vocational centers, and placement agencies to create a comprehensive skill development ecosystem.
What Sets Skyy Skill Academy Apart?
- Localized Curriculum: The academy develops courses tailored to regional job markets and industries.
- Affordability: With an emphasis on low-cost, high-impact education, Skyy ensures that no deserving student is left behind due to financial constraints.
- Strong Placement Support: The startup partners with hundreds of companies to provide job placements to its graduates.
- Use of Technology: Leveraging AI-driven learning analytics and adaptive teaching methods, the academy improves student outcomes and engagement.
Growth and Recognition
As of 2025, Skyy Skill Academy has trained over 1 lakh students and maintains a placement rate of over 80%. Its annual revenue crossing the ₹10 crore mark is a testament to its sustainable and scalable model. The startup has been featured in several national entrepreneurship forums and is increasingly recognized as a key player in India’s skilling revolution.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Himansu plans to expand Skyy Skill Academy’s footprint across India and into neighboring countries. With increasing government focus on skill development and digital education, the future looks bright for this Odisha-born EdTech star.
Conclusion
Skyy Skill Academy’s journey is a powerful reminder that innovation, impact, and integrity can drive monumental success—even when starting with humble beginnings. From a ₹30,000 investment to a ₹10 crore annual turnover, Himansu Sekhar Panda’s story is not just inspirational—it’s a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs across India.